Keeping Mishawaka Safe This Winter: A Guide to Snow Removal Responsibilities

Keeping Mishawaka Safe This Winter: A Guide to Snow Removal Responsibilities

As winter settles over Mishawaka, our community once again leans on a shared commitment to safety, accessibility, and neighborhood pride. Snow and ice present challenges for all of us—drivers, pedestrians, schoolchildren, seniors, and workers trying to get to and from their destinations safely.

The City of Mishawaka works hard to keep streets safe and passable, but keeping our sidewalks and neighborhood walkways clear is a responsibility we all share. This partnership between residents, businesses, and the City is an important part of what we call The Mishawaka Way—doing our part so that together, we protect one another.

Below is a reminder of the responsibilities that apply to all property owners and occupants within the City limits during the winter season.

Sidewalks: Clearing Snow and Ice Within 24 Hours

City ordinance requires property owners and occupants to remove snow and ice from public sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowfall ends. This requirement applies to:

• Residential homes

• Businesses

• Rental properties

• Vacant lots with sidewalks

• Churches, nonprofits, and other institutions

Sidewalks are essential routes for students walking to school, residents with mobility challenges, and anyone who relies on safe pedestrian access.
A clear sidewalk protects your neighbors—and reduces the risk of slips, falls, or injuries.

If ice cannot be removed immediately, the sidewalk should be treated with sand, salt, or another traction material until conditions allow for full clearing.

What About Corner Lots?

If your property sits on a corner, you are responsible for clearing both sidewalk segments and ensuring pedestrian ramps at intersections remain open. These ramps are vital for children, seniors, and individuals using mobility devices.

Do Not Shovel or Blow Snow Into the Street

Pushing, blowing, or shoveling snow from driveways or sidewalks into the street is strictly prohibited.
Doing so creates dangerous conditions that hinder the City’s plowing operation and can cause packed or refrozen snow hazards.

Please place removed snow onto your property—not in the roadway.

Help Keep Fire Hydrants Accessible

While not required by ordinance, the City strongly encourages residents to clear a 3-foot radius around fire hydrants near their property.
In an emergency, seconds matter. A visible and accessible hydrant could save a home or a life.

Assist Neighbors When You Can

Mishawaka has long been known for stepping up for one another, especially in difficult weather. If you are able, consider assisting:

• Elderly neighbors

• Residents with disabilities

• Neighbors recovering from illness or injury

A few minutes of your time can make a world of difference.

City Snow Plowing Responsibilities

The City is responsible for clearing:

• Public streets

• Multi-use paths along designated corridors

• Sidewalks directly adjacent to City-owned property

While crews work around the clock during major snow events, we ask for patience and caution as plowing may require multiple passes to keep streets safe and drivable.

Together, We Keep Mishawaka Moving

Winter weather is part of life in northern Indiana—but so is the resilience and teamwork that define our community. By doing your part to keep sidewalks clear and pedestrian routes safe, you help ensure that Mishawaka remains a livable, walkable, and caring community all winter long.

If you have questions about winter regulations, need to report a concern, or would like more information, please visit:
mishawaka.in.gov or contact the City of Mishawaka Engineering or Code Enforcement Departments.

Stay safe, stay warm, and thank you for helping us uphold The Mishawaka Way