City of North Vancouver is thinking about finding a new way to ‘encourage’ you to clear snow from sidewalks on time.
CNV councillors will debate a change to snow removal bylaws that will create rules on frequency and timing of the snow removal.
The new rule would have you clear sidewalks within 24 hours after it stops snowing, or before snow accumulation exceeds 10 centimeters.
Staff says the current absence of expectation makes the current bylaw difficult to enforce and is unlikely to withstand a court challenge because it is vague.
A more specific requirement is needed, staff says, much like the District of West Vancouver and District of North Vancouver where such criteria exist.
City staff will continue to seek voluntary compliance with this regulation through education, but this amendment, the city hopes, will give clear message to residents and businesses on sidewalk snow removal.
While the proposed amendments set a clear timeline, in practice staff will continue to ensure that businesses and residents have sufficient time to clear sidewalks and will take into account the timing of snow events on weekends and statutory holidays.
The city believes the amendment will create greater public expectations for snow clearing during and after a snow event.
