Property owners in Bowling Green are required to clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their premises within 24 hours after the end of a storm during which snow and ice have accumulated.
Snow removal guidelines are posted to the city’s website.
Following are tips suggested by the city:
- Shovel early in the day. The sun will warm the surface and help melt new snow, preventing the need for deicers.
- Shovel often so snow does not become compacted and turn to ice.
- Shovel or plow your driveway and sidewalks before spreading deicer.
- Shovel before you drive a vehicle on the driveway to reduce packing snow.
The city also suggests that property owners use deicers sparingly. Deicing products can have negative environmental impacts when melted snow and ice carry runoff into ditches, streams, and rivers.
Overuse of certain products, such as salts, can also damage driveways, sidewalks, vehicles, and vegetation and can be a hazard to pets. Check the label before applying. Many deicers will not work in extremely low temperatures.
Use sand sparingly. Sand will not melt snow or ice but will increase traction. Sweep up excess sand to avoid adding sediment to nearby waterways.
Visit the Clear Choices, Clean Water Website for more ways to protect our local waterways.
