If snow removal from the town’s roads is carried out by the town hall, that of the sidewalks is not necessarily done. In most large cities, snow removal from roads, sidewalks and pedestrian crossings is managed by the town hall. Depending on the decrees in force, this may be the role of the town hall or the person residing in front of the sidewalk. Regardless of who is responsible, it is important to secure sidewalks during the winter period.
Manage the maintenance of the surroundings of your property yourself if a municipal decree stipulates it
In the majority of municipalities, a municipal decree stipulates that these are the inhabitants who are responsible for the maintenance of their sidewalk. To be sure, simply consult the text at the town hall. The latter may include specific instructions, such as putting snow in the gutters or removing dead leaves in autumn to avoid slipping on them. Please note that all residents are affected, whether they own or rent their accommodation.
The town hall responsible for all sidewalks in the absence of an order
If no document stipulates who is responsible, it is the town hall which is designated in charge of clearing snow from the sidewalks. However, this can make a person liable when certain accidents occur. This is particularly the case if the town hall removes the snow, but the snow that fell from a roof causes an accident.
What are the risks if someone is injured on a snowy sidewalk?
If an order is in force, failure to clear snow in front of your home can be punished with a fine of 38 euros. Prosecution can also be initiated if a person slips and is injured.
Who, the owner or the tenant, must clear the snow from the sidewalk?
On this subject, the law and usage differ. Indeed, article 58 of the Code of Obligations, it is the owner who is responsible for this task: he must guarantee access to the said property without danger. However, in reality, custom dictates that the tenant takes responsibility for it.
Please note, if you are in a co-ownership, snow removal must be carried out by the co-ownership trustee.
Source : article 58 of the Code of ObligationsLegifrance.
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