Professional Snow Removal Services in Norwood, MA

Norwood Winter Weather & Snow Removal Resources

Snow removal is a critical legal responsibility for property owners in Norwood, MA. It is essential to adhere to strict enforcement protocols and municipal ordinances that establish timeframes, clearance standards, and penalty structures. The resources outlined on this page aim to inform residents about their obligations and the city's snow management policies.

Contact Norwood Department of Public Works:
Norwood Department of Public Works
135 Nahatan Street, Norwood, MA 02062
Phone: 311 or (781) 762-1210
Official Website: Norwood DPW

Understanding Norwood's Snow Removal Ordinances and Legal Requirements

Norwood's snow removal ordinances mandate that property owners clear snow from sidewalks within a specified timeframe after snowfall ends. According to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 85, Section 5, municipalities have the authority to enact regulations concerning snow removal. For specific city ordinances, refer to the Norwood Municipal Code.

Mandatory clearing timelines in Norwood include:

• Timeframe: Snow must be cleared within 3 hours after snowfall stops.
• Overnight Snowfall: If snowfall occurs overnight, property owners must clear sidewalks by 9 AM the following day.
• Accessible Path Width: A minimum path width of 36 inches is required.
• Ice Removal: Property owners must ensure that sidewalks are free from ice or apply appropriate traction materials.
• Prohibition on Depositing Snow: It is illegal to deposit snow from private properties onto public streets.

Contact Norwood Inspectional Services:
Inspectional Services Department
135 Nahatan Street, Norwood, MA 02062
Phone: (781) 440-4900
Official Website: Norwood Inspectional Services

Fines for non-compliance are structured as follows:

• Commercial Property Fines: Fines may reach up to $300 for commercial properties failing to comply.
• Residential Property Fines: Fines for residential properties vary by building size, starting at $75.
• Street Deposition Fines: Fines for depositing snow onto streets can also reach $300.
• Daily Violations: Each day of non-compliance counts as a separate violation.

Norwood Neighborhood Snow Management Challenges

Norwood has several neighborhoods that present unique challenges for snow removal:

• East Norwood: Characterized by steep hills that complicate plowing and require careful management of snow accumulation.
• Norwood Center: High pedestrian traffic and commercial properties necessitate quick and efficient snow removal to ensure safety.
• Walnut Street Area: Narrow streets create challenges for plowing and require additional coordination with residents.

The city also utilizes a 311 system for tracking complaints related to snow removal, which helps identify problem areas and response patterns.

Municipal Snow Operations and Emergency Response

The Norwood Department of Public Works operates an extensive snow removal program, covering numerous plowing routes across the city. The priority for snow clearing includes major arterial roads and emergency routes to ensure public safety. Specifics of the snow operations include:

• Plowing Routes: The city has 12 primary plowing routes.
• Lane Miles Covered: Approximately 100 lane miles are maintained during snow events.
• Priority Clearing: Emergency routes and main thoroughfares are prioritized for quick access.

Contact Norwood Office of Emergency Management:
Office of Emergency Management
135 Nahatan Street, Norwood, MA 02062
Phone: (781) 762-1210
Official Website: Norwood Emergency Management

Property owners should be aware that municipal plows may deposit snow across driveways during plowing operations and should coordinate with the city regarding plowing schedules and snow emergency declarations.

Snow Emergency Parking and Space Saver Policies

Norwood has established guidelines for snow emergency parking that residents should be familiar with:

• Space Saver Policies: Space savers are not commonly permitted in Norwood, but any use must be removed within 48 hours after a snow emergency.
• Snow Emergency Parking Bans: During snow emergencies, parking is prohibited on designated emergency snow routes.
• Towing Policies: Vehicles parked in violation may be subject to towing, with fees typically reaching $100.
• Alert Notifications: Residents receive alerts through local media and the city website regarding snow emergencies.
• Alternative Parking Locations: Designated public lots are available for residents during snow emergencies.

Filing Snow Removal Complaints Through 311 or Municipal Reporting System

Norwood residents can report snow removal violations through various channels:

• Mobile App: The Norwood 311 app allows residents to report issues directly from their devices.
• Phone Reporting: Residents can call 311 for immediate assistance.
• Online Reporting: Complaints can also be submitted online through the municipal website.
• Email Options: Direct email options are available for specific departments on the city’s website.

Accessibility Violation Reporting:
**MA Office on Disability**
One Ashburton Place, Room 1305, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 727-7440 | TTY: (800) 322-2020
Official Website: Mass Office on Disability

Premises Liability Protection Under MA Law

Under Massachusetts law, property owners are required to exercise reasonable care regarding snow and ice hazards. The landmark case Papadopoulos v. Target Corp., 457 Mass. 368 (2010) abolished the distinctions between natural and artificial accumulations of snow and ice.

Key legal requirements include:

• Duty of Care: Property owners must maintain safe conditions on their premises, including sidewalks, parking areas, entrances, and stairways.
• Liability for Dangerous Conditions: Refer to Massachusetts General Law Chapter 84, Section 15 for liability details here.
• Notice Requirement: Injury claims must be reported within 30 days under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 84, Sections 18-20 here.

Neighborhoods We Serve Throughout Norwood

East Norwood: This neighborhood features single-family homes and is characterized by steep hills, making snow removal particularly challenging during heavy snowfalls.

Norwood Center: A bustling commercial hub with high pedestrian traffic, requiring timely snow removal to maintain accessibility for shoppers and residents alike.

Walnut Street Area: Narrow streets and densely packed housing create unique challenges for snow plowing, particularly during larger snow events.

Westover: Known for its historic buildings, this neighborhood requires careful consideration to preserve the integrity of its architecture while managing snow removal.

Highland Avenue: With a mix of residential and commercial properties, snow management must balance the needs of businesses and residents effectively.

South Norwood: This area includes several schools and parks,