Bikers on John Nolen for Ride the Drive.
City of Madison

Sidewalk clearing fines

Snow removal is a matter of public safety and access, so we do not issue warnings. The City has occasionally delayed enforcement after large snow events.

Property owners are responsible for snow removal. If you rent, read your lease to check who handles snow removal.

If you do not clear the sidewalk by the required time, we may issue you a citation with a fine. You will get a tag on your door with the fine information.

Pay a fine

How we calculate fines

For a first offense, the total fine is $124. For all other offenses, the total fine is $187.

This includes the base fine ($50 or $100), plus other fees. State statute requires these extra fees and adds them to all municipal citations:

  • Penalty Assessment  (26% of base fine)
  • Judicial Assessment
  • Crime Lab Assessment
CostFirst OffenseSubsequent Offenses
Base fine (forfeiture)$50$100
Penalty Assessment (26% of base fine)$13$26
Judicial Assessment$10$10
Crime Lab Assessment$13$13
Municipal Court Costs$38$38
Total$124$187

Charges for snow removal

We will re-check your sidewalk the day after we issue a citation. If it still is not cleared, crews will remove the snow and ice at your expense.

Snow removal costs are separate from citations. These costs are added to your property tax bill as a special assessment.

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