Acton Residential Snow Plowing Services

Acton Homeowner Snow Removal Requirements

Massachusetts law establishes the foundational framework for residential snow removal responsibilities for property owners, landlords, and tenants. The 105 CMR 410.260 regulation specifically defines these obligations, setting standards for keeping means of egress accessible and safe. In Acton, MA, state regulations are complemented by local ordinances, which require property owners to clear snow and ice from public sidewalks adjacent to their property within 24 hours after the end of a snowfall. Beyond sidewalks, Acton homeowners are also responsible for maintaining safe passage to building entrances, garages, parking areas, and all access routes throughout the winter season. These requirements are enforced to ensure pedestrian safety and reduce slip-and-fall liability risks for all types of residential properties.

Acton Inspectional Services Department
472 Main Street, Acton, MA 01720
Phone: (978) 929-6633
Official Website: Inspectional Services Department

Acton Residential Snow Removal Fines and Penalties

Acton's snow removal ordinance, detailed in Town of Acton Bylaws, Chapter E, Section 5, outlines enforcement measures and fines for residential property owners who fail to meet snow clearing requirements. The fine structure is as follows:

• Single-family and small multi-family properties (16 units or fewer): $50 per violation per day
• Large multi-family buildings (17 or more units): $100 per violation per day
• Depositing snow on public streets: Additional penalty of $100–$300 depending on the volume and obstruction caused

Each day a violation persists is considered a separate offense, incurring additional fines. Acton uses both proactive inspections and complaint-driven citations to enforce compliance. Reports of violations can be submitted through the Acton 311 system, which are then investigated by Inspectional Services field inspectors. Inspectors document violations and issue citations according to municipal procedures. It is important for landlords to note that property owners remain legally liable for sidewalk snow removal violations, even if lease agreements assign responsibility to tenants. The City issues citations to the owner of record, who must pursue reimbursement from tenants through separate legal action if necessary.

MA Landlord and Tenant Snow Removal Obligations

The Massachusetts State Sanitary Code 105 CMR 410.260 establishes non-transferable landlord responsibilities for snow and ice removal. Landlords must keep all means of egress free from snow and ice at all times, regardless of lease language. This legal obligation applies universally across Massachusetts, including Acton.

MA Attorney General’s Office
One Ashburton Place, Boston, 02108
Phone: (617) 727-2200
Official Website: AG Landlord-Tenant Guide

• Multi-Family Properties: Landlords are fully responsible for clearing snow and ice from common entrances, stairways, parking lots, walkways, exterior shared stairs, and curb ramps as required by Acton ordinances.
• Single-Family Rental Homes: Tenants may be assigned responsibility for private driveways and stairs if a written lease provision exists; however, landlords retain legal liability for ensuring these areas are cleared.

• Tenant Responsibilities: Tenants can only be assigned snow removal duties for areas of exclusive use, such as private driveways, entrances, patios, decks, or parking spaces, and only with explicit written agreement. Shared or common areas cannot be assigned to tenants, and any such lease clauses are void under Massachusetts law.

Acton Homeowner Driveway and Parking Area Requirements

Owner-occupied residential properties in Acton are required to maintain all access areas, from public sidewalks to private driveways and pedestrian routes, to ensure safety and compliance during winter months. Homeowners are fully liable for slip-and-fall incidents that occur due to inadequate snow or ice removal.

• Clear driveways and walkways: Remove snow and ice from the sidewalk to every building entrance.
• Outdoor stairs, stoops, porches, and decks: All must be cleared to prevent hazards.
• Garbage collection points, utility meters, and emergency egresses: Must remain accessible at all times.
• Treat ice: Use sand, salt, or traction materials to reduce slip risks.
• Coordinate with municipal plowing: Remain aware of town plowing schedules to plan additional snow clearing if needed.

Acton Code Enforcement Contact:
Phone: (978) 929-6633
Report online: Acton 311 System

Acton Public Works maintains over 140 lane miles of roadway, and municipal plows often deposit additional snow onto previously cleared driveways. Homeowners should anticipate the need for secondary clearing after plows complete their routes.

• Monitor plowing progress: Use the Acton plowing route map to follow municipal operations.
• Delay final clearing: Wait until plows have finished in your neighborhood before completing driveway clearing.
• Maintain driveway width: Ensure at least 10–12 feet of width for vehicle access.
• Snow storage: Pile snow on lawns or designated storage areas, not street edges.
• Do not deposit snow on public streets: This is a violation subject to fines under local ordinances.

Residential Properties Throughout Acton Neighborhoods

Our residential snow plowing services extend throughout Greater Acton's diverse neighborhoods, addressing unique challenges created by varied property types, terrain characteristics, and infrastructure conditions.

West Acton Village: Features a mix of historic homes and small multi-family residences. Narrow streets and older walkways require careful snow removal, while preservation guidelines may affect equipment use near heritage structures.

North Acton Estates: Predominantly large single-family homes with lengthy driveways and expansive lawns. The topography often includes slopes, increasing the importance of proper snow management for driveway access and safe egress.

South Acton Row Houses: Includes attached homes and duplexes with shared parking courts. Limited snow storage and shared walkways necessitate coordinated clearing and compliance with common area maintenance requirements.

Kelley’s Corner Multi-Family District: Consists of apartment complexes and condominium associations. Parking lots, interconnected walkways, and curb ramps require large-scale clearing, with special attention to accessibility standards under Acton and state law.

East Acton Rural Residences: Houses are spaced on larger lots with long private drives. Residents must ensure access for emergency vehicles and clear snow accumulations from mailbox clusters and utility access points.

Historic Districts (e.g., Main Street): Characterized by antique properties with unique architectural features. Preservation of stone walls and mature landscaping presents challenges for snow storage and machinery use.

Conantum Neighborhood: Mid-century modern homes integrated with natural landscapes. Curved driveways, wooded areas, and minimal street lighting require strategic snow removal and ice treatment for safety.

Robbins Mill Subdivision: Contemporary suburban homes with multi-car garages and shared recreational paths. Wide driveways and community sidewalks demand planning to accommodate snow piles and maintain clear routes for pedestrians and vehicles.