Professional Snow Removal Services in Brookline, MA

Brookline Winter Weather & Snow Removal Resources

In Brookline, MA, snow removal is a critical legal responsibility for property owners, ensuring safe and accessible pathways for pedestrians during winter months. The strict enforcement of municipal ordinances establishes specific timeframes, clearance standards, and penalties for non-compliance. This page provides essential information on snow removal regulations, neighborhood challenges, municipal operations, and more.

Contact the Brookline Department of Public Works:
Brookline Department of Public Works
333 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445
Phone: 311 or (617) 730-2177
Official Website: Brookline Public Works
 

Understanding Brookline's Snow Removal Ordinances and Legal Requirements

Brookline has specific snow removal ordinances that set legal expectations for property owners. According to the Massachusetts General Law Chapter 85, Section 5, municipalities have the authority to manage snow removal. In Brookline, property owners must clear snow from sidewalks within three hours after the snowfall ends. If snowfall occurs overnight, the clearing must be completed by 7:00 AM the following day. The minimum accessible path width is 36 inches, and ice removal must ensure a safe surface using either bare pavement or appropriate traction materials. It is also prohibited to deposit snow onto public streets.

Contact the Brookline Inspectional Services:
Brookline Inspectional Services
333 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445
Phone: (617) 730-2150
Official Website: Brookline Inspectional Services
 

The fine structure for non-compliance includes:

• Commercial property fines: Up to $300 per violation.
• Residential property fines: $50 for single-family homes; $100 for multi-family homes.
• Street deposition fines: $200 for each occurrence.

Each day that a violation continues is considered a separate offense.

Brookline Neighborhood Snow Management Challenges

Brookline's diverse neighborhoods face unique challenges in snow management, which can affect compliance with snow removal ordinances. The following neighborhoods have distinct characteristics that complicate snow removal:

• Coolidge Corner: High-density commercial areas and heavy pedestrian traffic.
• Brookline Village: Narrow streets and historic buildings create challenges for snow placement.
• Chestnut Hill: Sloped streets require additional attention for safe passage.

Municipal Snow Operations and Emergency Response

The Brookline Department of Public Works manages snow operations through several plowing routes covering approximately 120 lane miles. Priority clearing routes include major arterial roads and emergency access routes. Property owners should be aware that municipal plows may deposit snow across driveways during operations. Coordination with the Department of Public Works is critical during heavy snow events.

Contact the Brookline Office of Emergency Management:
Brookline Office of Emergency Management
333 Washington Street, Brookline, MA 02445
Phone: (617) 730-2177
Official Website: Brookline Emergency Management
 

Snow Emergency Parking and Space Saver Policies

Brookline has specific policies regarding snow emergencies, including the use of space savers. Residents are allowed to use space savers for 48 hours after a snow emergency ends. However, it is essential to remove space savers promptly to avoid fines. During snow emergencies, designated snow routes will have parking bans enforced, and violations may result in towing.

Filing Snow Removal Complaints Through 311 or Municipal Reporting System

Brookline residents can report snow removal violations through the 311 system. Reports can be made via phone, online, or through a mobile app if available. The city's 311 reporting system allows residents to submit complaints and track responses. Additionally, accessibility violations can be reported to the state-level:

Massachusetts Office on Disability
One Ashburton Place, Room 1305, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 727-7440 | TTY: (800) 322-2020
Official Website: Mass Office on Disability
 

Premises Liability Protection Under MA Law

Property owners in Brookline face legal liabilities for snow and ice hazards according to Massachusetts law. The landmark case Papadopoulos v. Target Corp., 457 Mass. 368 (2010) established that property owners must maintain safe conditions on their premises, including sidewalks and parking areas. The legal requirements are outlined in Massachusetts General Law Chapter 84, Section 15, which addresses liability for dangerous conditions. Additionally, property owners must provide a 30-day notice for any injury claims as specified in Massachusetts General Law Chapter 84, Sections 18-20.

Neighborhoods We Serve Throughout Brookline

Brookline consists of several neighborhoods that present unique characteristics and service requirements:

Allston-Brighton: A densely populated area with diverse housing types; challenges include narrow streets and high parking demand.

Coolidge Corner: Known for its bustling commercial district, it requires timely snow removal to ensure pedestrian safety.

Brookline Village: Features historic buildings and narrow streets; requires careful snow placement to maintain access.

Chestnut Hill: Characterized by sloped terrain, necessitating additional snow removal efforts for safety.

Washington Square: A mix of residential and commercial properties; must manage snow effectively to support local businesses.

St. Mary’s: Primarily residential with a high density of families, necessitating prompt snow removal for accessibility.

Pine Manor: Features institutional properties; coordination with schools and facilities is essential during snow events.

Greendale: A neighborhood with diverse building types; requires attention to both residential and commercial areas for snow management.