Donna Reed Miller’s snow shovel bill approved by City Council

The next time it snows in Philadelphia be prepared to work a little harder clearing the sidewalk. The Philadelphia City Council approved Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller’s bill requiring residents to clear a three-foot wide path on their sidewalks. Current law requires a 30 inch path be made. The Philadelphia Inquirer reports that Mayor Michael Nutter is expected to sign this into law.

Here’s what the new law would require:

§10-720. Snow Removal from Sidewalks.

(1)    The owner, agent and tenants of any building or premises shall clear a path of not less than 36 inches in width on all sidewalks abutting the building or premises within 6 hours after the snow has ceased to fall. The path shall be thoroughly cleared of snow and ice. Where the width of any pavement measured from the property line to the curb is less than 3 feet, the path cleared may be only 12 inches in width. When the building in question is a multifamily dwelling the owner or his agent shall be responsible for compliance with the requirements of this Section.

Councilwoman Donna Reed Miller represents the 8th District, which includes Chestnut Hill, Mt. Airy and Germantown.

We want to know what you think of Miller’s snow removal plan. Are you willing to shovel a 36 inch wide path?