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Resident raises liability concerns over snow‑and‑ice sidewalk ordinance; city attorneys cite Ohio precedent
Summary
A resident told council the city's sidewalk snow removal ordinance exposes property owners to negligence liability if they attempt to clear snow and ice; councilors and the city attorney responded that Ohio law limits liability to cases where owners exacerbate dangerous conditions and that many Ohio municipalities maintain similar rules.
During public comment at the Dec. 16 meeting, Michael Ramsey of Stillwell Road urged council to reconsider the city's sidewalk snow/ice maintenance ordinance, warning that efforts to clear sidewalks can create hazardous 'trenches' and expose property owners to legal risk if someone falls.
"If I start cleaning that sidewalk and make it more hazardous and somebody falls, I'm liable," Ramsey told council, describing a personal concern after a broken hip and citing a 2011 effort that failed. He said property owners, particularly rental owners, face a liability burden if they attempt to make sidewalks safer.
Council members and the city attorney responded in later discussion. The city attorney noted Ohio Supreme Court guidance that a property owner is potentially liable for exacerbating dangerous conditions and that reasonable care in shoveling should generally avoid liability. Several councilors said similar ordinances exist across Ohio and emphasized education, resource lists and support for seniors who may need help clearing sidewalks.
Council asked staff to follow up with Ramsey; staff said they would review the packet he provided and respond. The conversation concluded with council reaffirming the goal of public safety and noting options for outreach and assistance for vulnerable residents.
