What is a New Jersey homeowner’s responsibility for clearing snow and ice?
In New Jersey, homeowners are generally not legally obligated to clear snow and ice from sidewalks in front of their homes.
However, there are some exceptions including:
· Local ordinances – Some municipalities may require homeowners to clear snow and ice from sidewalks around their homes.
· If a homeowner rents out their property, the lease may specify who is responsible for snow removal.
There also are regulations on how wide of a path property owners must clear.
For example, in Woodbridge, property owners are required to shovel a three-foot-wide path. In Summit, an ordinance requires residents to clear sidewalks by at least two feet for single-family or two-family residential lots.
If you slip and fall on snow or ice on someone else’s property, the owner may be liable for your damages if there is a local ordinance that requires homeowners to clear snow and ice from sidewalks around their homes.
If you can prove a violation of a local ordinance and link that to your accident and the injury you suffered, you may have a valid compensation claim.
If you are injured by falling due to ice and snow, you need to contact an attorney for a consultation.
Cooper Levenson is a full-service law firm established in 1957. Kathleen F. Beers, Esq. handles personal injury law and can be reached at kbeers@cooperlevenson.com or (609) 572-7570.