Snow and Ice
Industry
Consultants

When it comes to large construction projects, incorporating snow-removal plans into the design and construction phase can save millions of dollars compared to attempting to retrofit solutions. At Allin / Rose Consulting, Inc., we work with municipalities; as well as public and private architects, planners, and construction contractors on projects ranging from airports to office buildings and shopping plazas. 

Common issues include: 

• Pedestrian safety: Adequate drainage and areas designated for the accumulation of plowed snow. 
• Planning and clarifying responsibilities for maintenance and snow-removal activities. 
• Providing level-of-service guidelines and prioritization of facilities.
• Outlining continued improvement and training guidelines. 
• Mitigating risks and management costs.
• Utilize electronic communications and social media to enhance outreach.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state laws, as well as local laws, ordinances and best practices. 
• Incorporate innovative and/or environmental sustainability practices that provide cost savings measures, foster efficiency of operations, and aid in efforts to preserve air and water quality.

Selection of snow removal equipment and ice melters that will best suit the needs of a particular application while minimizing the costs of acquisition and long-term maintenance that results from damaged or degraded hardscape and drainage systems.

While the Federal Highway Administration offers some guidance, including compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, state and local ordinances are even more likely to impact a property owner’s obligations as it relates to snow and ice removal. ADA guidelines specify that sidewalks have 36 inches of clear passageway. 

However, different municipal ordinances have varying degrees of detail for how best to achieve a safe clear zone for pedestrians after a snowfall. Some ordinances require the use of gravel, sand, or salt on ice to prevent slip hazards, while others do not specify treatments. Some ordinances specify the maximum allowable height of snow banks and where snow cannot be piled to insure proper visibility of pedestrians. Some jurisdictions require snow removal from specific features such as fire hydrants, benches, driveways and curb ramps.

Those who fail to comply may face daily fines. But liability for personal injury resulting from falls or other accidents is typically a leading consequence of inaction or improper action.

Common issues that result in personal or property liability claims include: 

• Blocked sidewalks
• Standing water that freezes to create a slipping hazard
• Obstructed views that block pedestrian or driver vision

At Allin / Rose Consulting, Inc., our snow removal experts provide both snow and ice planning and construction consulting, as well as expert witness testimony in the wake of an accident or other claim of liability against a property owner.