Three Foot Snow Law in Place Across New York State

The cold air of fall is here and some places are waking up to frost or even some snowfall in New York State! How prepared are you for what's next? The winter weather in New York State is no joke and can sneak up at any time.

Many of us who grew up in New York love winter, but there are some winters that can drag for way too long. Between heavy snow and frigid temperatures, it can feel more like the Arctic than what we’re used to. But, as I tell everyone, being ready for the winter and having a plan can make it much easier to deal with. For example, being a good neighbor and shoveling out hydrants and sidewalks can make a big difference right on your own street!

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.

The winter chill is already creeping in. However, the forecast for the winter is calling for a Super El Nino that will allegedly bring more mild temperatures. However, the Buffalonian in me is thinking of what that can mean for lake effect snow. Warm lakes bring piles of snow!