Yes, it is true that most cities have ordinances that require you to shovel the sidewalks in front of your property. I was actually sued one time because a newspaper boy slipped on my icy sidewalk. The reason for this is that if you don't keep the sidewalks clear, pedestrians will be forced to walk out in the street where they could be hit by a moving car (snowbanks make the streets much narrower).
It is just not practical for the city to clear all of the sidewalks though some towns now clear sidewalks on major streets with riding snowblowers.
When I lived in the city, I would shovel the sidewalks in front of a neighbor's house because they were elderly. Now I live in the country where there are no sidewalks but I do have a 80 foot by 20 foot driveway to shovel! My back hurts just thinking about it. One of these days, I'll get a snowblower but it just seems such a waste to pay so much for a device that I might only use 5 or 6 times a year.
See? There's another one. ;-)
One of these days, I'll get a snowblower but it just seems such a waste to pay so much for a device that I might only use 5 or 6 times a year.
No kidding. That 4-wheeler posted by johniegrad in 136 would be perfect, but I would think it had a steep price tag attached to it!
LOL I used to live in NW CT, those hills are famous for getting snow. Many times volunteers are petitioned to get people to and from work with their 4 wheel drives. And I have had neighbors with snowblowers come and assist me and my son in shoveling.
Where I am now, we just bought a new snowblower. Glad we did!!!!