New York State Comments on the Three Foot Snow Law

It looks like we’re about to get more snowfall here in New York State. The groundhog predicted six more weeks of winter, and for the most part, that forecast seems to be holding true. But there is one simple thing you can do when the snow piles up that helps your community, and might even give you a little extra exercise.

Many of us who grew up in New York love winter, but this season has felt especially intense. Between heavy snow and frigid temperatures, it has felt more like the Arctic than what we’re used to. Normally by now, we would have had at least a brief thaw or break from the deep freeze. That hasn’t been the case as we brace for yet another round of snow.

Why Clearing Snow Around Fire Hydrants Matters

If you live in a residential neighborhood with a fire hydrant near your home, you can play an important role in helping your neighbors and local firefighters this winter.

When snow buries a fire hydrant and a fire breaks out, firefighters lose valuable time digging it out before they can access the water they need. In an emergency, every second truly counts. Your effort to keep hydrants clear can make a critical difference.

New York State Hydrant Clearing Law

In many municipalities across New York State, there are local laws requiring residents to clear at least three feet of space around a fire hydrant. Fire departments also ask residents to shovel a clear path from the hydrant to the street so crews can access it quickly and easily during an emergency.

Some towns and villages even have a time limit. "For the Town, please do this within 12 hours after snowfall, or within 12 hours after sunrise if snow falls overnight. For the Village, the requirement is within 24 hours of the snowfall".

Keeping hydrants visible and accessible throughout the winter is a small act that has a big impact.

Doing Your Part While Waiting for Spring

Fingers crossed the groundhog’s prediction turns out to be wrong this year. While many of us enjoy winter activities, there’s something special about spring and summer in New York—windows down, fresh air, and time spent outside in warmer weather.

Until then, clearing snow from around fire hydrants is a simple way to support your local fire companies and do your civic duty during the toughest stretch of winter.

Local firefighters truly appreciate the extra effort residents make to ensure hydrants are accessible when emergencies happen.