Are you legally required to shovel your sidewalk in Illinois? The short answer is yes, but with a few caveats.

First of all, it's important to note that we've had more snow than usual this week, so it's important to stay on top of shoveling to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

Illinois State Law

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According to Illinois state law, property owners are required to clear sidewalks adjacent to their property within 24 hours after the snowfall has ended. This applies to both residential and commercial properties. So, if you're a homeowner, you'll need to get out there and clear that sidewalk!

Exceptions

However, there are a few exceptions to this rule. For example, if the property is vacant, the owner is not responsible for shoveling. Additionally, if the snowfall occurred during the overnight hours, the property owner has until 10am the following morning to clear the sidewalks.

Penalties

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If a property owner does not clear their sidewalks in a timely manner, they can face penalties. These can include fines, court appearances, and even jail time in extreme cases. So, it's definitely worth it to grab that shovel and clear that sidewalk to avoid any legal trouble.

Safety First

It's important to remember that clearing sidewalks not only helps to avoid legal trouble but it also helps to ensure the safety of yourself, your neighbors, and any pedestrians. So, let's all do our part to make sure our sidewalks are clear and safe for everyone to use.

As a property owner in Illinois, you are legally required to clear your sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowfall. Exceptions do apply, but it's always best to err on the side of caution and clear your sidewalks as soon as possible. Not only will it help you avoid legal trouble, but it will also help keep everyone safe and make it easier for people to walk around. With the amount of snow falling these days, it's essential to stay on top of shoveling and keep the sidewalks clear.

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