City of Detroit Lakes Takes New Approach to Snow Removal for Delinquent Property Owners

DETROIT LAKES (KDLM) – The city of Detroit Lakes has decided to follow a 13 year snow ordinance that up to now has never been implemented.

That ordinance requires property owners to clear snow and ice off the sidewalks in front of their homes and businesses within 72 hours. If they fail, the city will do it for them, and they will be assessed for the cost of the job.

The ordinance, however has never really been followed. The city of Detroit Lakes has until this year, removed the snow at no additional cost for delinquent property owners.

This year the city is trying a new approach, hanging notices on the doors of those who are not in compliance to remind them they’re required to clear the snow.

Shawn King, Detroit Lakes Public Works Director has indicated that compliance has gotten better recently. The City of Detroit Lakes plans to have their budget committee look into the possibility of once again clearing snow at no charge for residents before next winter.