Snow Removal

Assistance for Seniors & the Disabled

Seniors and the disabled can call Customer Service at 508-929-1300 for a list of agencies and phone numbers who may be able to assist in snow removal.

• List of Seasonal Assistance Referrals for the Elderly and Disabled

Driveways

• Plows are fixed and angled to the right so when plowing, snow may end up on the driveway you just shoveled.
• Clearing driveway openings is the responsibility of the property owner so you may wish to clear your driveway several times during the storm or wait until the storm and plowing operations have ended.
• Shoveling, plowing, or snow blowing the snow back into the street when clearing driveways and sidewalks is prohibited by City Ordinance.
• Plowing operations will typically continue past the point that snowfall ends. 

We apologize for any inconvenience this causes but plow blades cannot be lifted as they pass by a driveway. 

Enforcement

• The fine for failing to comply with the city's sidewalk snow removal ordinance is $75.00 per day.
• Complaints can be made to Department of Public Works and Parks if snow/ice is not cleared 10 hours after snow ceases. Please call 508-929-1300, or use our Online Customer Service Center.
• Department of Public Works will refer complaint to the enforcing agency which is the Police Department.
• If the owner or occupant fails to clear the sidewalk of snow within the time allowed, the city may remove the snow and clear the sidewalk. The City may then seek reimbursement of the expense incurred from the owner or occupant.

Report Sidewalk Not Shoveled

Fire Hydrants & Catch Basins

There are over 6,000 fire hydrants in Worcester. Please help us by shoveling around the hydrant near your home. For information on the Adopt-a-Hydrant program, please call Customer Service at 508-929-1300.

Learn more about fire hyrant and catch basin maintenance in the City.

Hydrants & Catch Basins

Removal of Snow & Ice From Private Property

• The Massachusetts State Sanitary Code states that the owner is responsible for maintaining the walkways, stairways, fire escapes and exits in a safe condition at all times; this includes the removal of snow and ice.

Sidewalks

• Property owners or occupants are responsible for keeping the sidewalk in front of and adjacent to their property clear of snow and ice.
• Worcester’s Ordinance states sidewalks must be cleared with a 4-foot wide path for safe pedestrian travel within 10 hours after snow ceases to fall. Also, clear ramps at corners that abut your property.
• Those who do not adhere to the city ordinance will be fined.

Please cooperate so school children and other pedestrians will be able to use the public walkways and avoid having to walk into the street.

Winter Sand

Winter Sand is free and available to residents using hand buckets only at the following three sites:

• 1065 Millbury Street - Residential Drop-Off Center
• Clark Street - Near the East Mountain Street intersection.
• 24 Albany Street - At the street edge of the DPW Yard (do not enter the DPW Yard).