Town of Bonnyville reminds residents to clear sidewalks as winter sets in

The snow has arrived, and with it comes a reminder from the Town of Bonnyville: keeping sidewalks clear isn’t just neighbourly, it’s the law. Community Peace Officer Wanda Tomm says early-season snowfall is the perfect time to refresh everyone on what the Snow Removal Bylaw requires from both homeowners and businesses.

Keeping the community safe

Tomm says the goal isn’t to hand out fines but to keep walkways safe for all ages, especially seniors, school kids, and anyone with mobility challenges. Slippery or blocked sidewalks can quickly become dangerous.

“Our priority is public safety. When sidewalks are cleared on time, it makes a real difference for everyone who relies on walking to get around,” she says.

Peace Officers respond to complaints and patrol problem areas, educating residents first. But repeated or serious non-compliance can lead to enforcement.

What residents need to know

Under the Town’s Snow Removal Bylaw, homeowners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks that run along their property.

Residential Requirements (Sidewalks adjacent to homes):
▪️ Must be cleared within 48 hours after snowfall ends
▪️ Entire width of the sidewalk must be safe and passable
▪️ Ice must be removed or treated with sand or another traction material
▪️ Snow cannot be pushed onto the street or neighbouring properties
▪️ Property owners are responsible for keeping sidewalks maintained throughout winter, even when away from home

What businesses must follow

Commercial properties are held to a slightly stricter standard because of heavier public foot traffic.

Business Requirements (Commercial/industrial properties):
▪️ Must clear sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall ends
▪️ Must remove snowbanks that block customer access to storefronts
▪️ Must ensure ice control is ongoing through business hours
▪️ Snow cannot be piled onto roadways or public property where it interferes with visibility or traffic flow
▪️ Larger commercial sites must maintain all customer access routes, including rear or side entrances

Enforcement and reminders

If a property is not cleared, the Town may issue a warning or order the work to be completed. If the Town has to send a crew, the cost is billed back to the property owner.

Tomm stresses that most residents are already doing their part. “Bonnyville has a strong community spirit. A lot of people go above and beyond by helping neighbours who might struggle with snow removal. We really appreciate that.”

The Town encourages everyone to plan ahead, check on elderly neighbours, and keep sidewalks safe as more snow arrives.