Memphis Snow Removal & Sidewalk Ordinances

Housing and Building Standards Tennessee 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

Memphis, Tennessee property owners and managers may have responsibilities under city ordinances to keep sidewalks clear of snow, ice, and debris. This guide summarizes the applicable municipal rules, who enforces them, how enforcement works, and practical steps for compliance and appeals. It cites official Memphis municipal sources and the city departments to contact for complaints, permits, or clarifications. Where the official page does not publish specific fines or procedures, the text notes that the figure or step is "not specified on the cited page."

Sidewalk and Snow-Clearing Obligations

City ordinances commonly require adjacent property owners to maintain and keep sidewalks safe and free of obstructions, which in many municipal codes includes removal of snow and ice. For Memphis's consolidated Code of Ordinances see the municipal code publisher below and the city departments that handle enforcement and street operations. City of Memphis Code of Ordinances[1]

If you rent property, check your lease—maintenance duties for sidewalks are often allocated to tenants or landlords.

Penalties & Enforcement

Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page; consult the municipal code link for any penalty text that may apply to obstruction or failure to maintain sidewalks. City of Memphis Code of Ordinances[1]

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page; the municipal code or individual enforcement notices may list amounts.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, or continuing offences are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders to abate, civil court actions, liens, or repair orders may be used under city code provisions; specifics are not specified on the cited page.
  • Enforcer: City of Memphis Code Enforcement and Public Works handle complaints, inspections, and street operations. See department contacts. City of Memphis Code Enforcement[2] City of Memphis Public Works[3]
  • Appeals and review: specific appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page; check the municipal code or contact Code Enforcement for appeal procedures.
  • Defences/discretion: officials may allow reasonable excuses or consider permits/variances; the municipal code pages do not publish a full list of defenses.
Contact Code Enforcement promptly if you receive a notice to learn applicable deadlines for appeal or compliance.

Applications & Forms

Published, official forms specific to sidewalk snow removal are not prominently available on the cited municipal pages; property owners should contact Code Enforcement or Public Works for any required forms, permits, or written abatement notices. City of Memphis Code Enforcement[2]

Practical Compliance Steps

  • Clear sidewalks within a reasonable time after snowfall to reduce risk and potential enforcement.
  • Repair uneven surfaces or hazards and document repairs with photos in case of disputes.
  • Keep records of weather, clearing times, and any communications with tenants or the city.
  • Report unsafe sidewalks or to ask about enforcement procedures via Code Enforcement contact channels.

Common Violations

  • Failure to remove snow/ice creating hazardous walkway.
  • Leaving appliances, construction debris, or obstructions on sidewalks.
  • Not repairing broken sidewalk panels that create tripping hazards.

FAQ

Who is responsible for clearing sidewalks after snow in Memphis?
Adjacent property owners or managers are generally responsible for maintaining sidewalks; consult the City of Memphis Code of Ordinances for the exact text and contact Code Enforcement for confirmation.
What happens if I don’t clear my sidewalk?
The city may issue abatement orders or enforcement actions; specific fines and escalation procedures are not specified on the cited municipal pages and require consultation with Code Enforcement or the municipal code. Official municipal code[1]
How do I report a hazardous sidewalk or a neighbor who won’t clear snow?
File a complaint with City of Memphis Code Enforcement via their official contact page or call the department listed on the city website. Report to Code Enforcement[2]

How-To

  1. Assess the sidewalk and clear a safe path at least the width of a pedestrian lane.
  2. Use sand or non-corrosive deicer sparingly on icy spots.
  3. Document the clearing with timestamps and photos.
  4. If enforcement action is threatened, contact Code Enforcement immediately and request appeal information.

Key Takeaways

  • Property owners in Memphis should maintain sidewalks to ensure pedestrian safety.
  • Contact City of Memphis Code Enforcement for complaints, forms, and appeals.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis Code of Ordinances - Municipal Code Publisher
  2. [2] City of Memphis Code Enforcement - Department Contact
  3. [3] City of Memphis Public Works - Street Operations

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data