Winter Rules: Snow Removal Laws & Business Essentials in Germany vs. Canada

Vancouver, BC - February 6th, 2025 - As winter settles in, businesses and homeowners alike must adhere to strict by-laws regarding snow removal. In both Germany and Canada, failing to clear sidewalks can result in fines or liability issues. As an example, the City of Vancouver states "Vancouver property owners and occupants are responsible for removing all snow and ice from the full width of sidewalks in front of and, if on a corner lot, alongside their property each day by 10am when there is snow on the sidewalks or freezing temperatures."

Germany’s Snow Removal Laws

In Germany, property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to their premises. Local regulations vary, but in most municipalities, shoveling must be completed by 7:00 AM on weekdays and by 8:00 AM on weekends. The use of salt is often restricted due to environmental concerns, so businesses and homeowners rely on sand or gravel for traction.

Additionally, Germany enforces the "Winterreifenpflicht" law, requiring vehicles to have winter or all-season tires marked with the M+S (mud and snow) or Alpine symbol in snowy conditions. Failure to comply can result in fines.

Vancouver’s Snow Removal Rules

In Vancouver, BC, property owners must clear snow and ice from sidewalks by 10:00 AM the day after a snowfall. The city encourages the use of environmentally friendly de-icers. Failing to comply can result in a $250 fine. While there are no mandatory snow tire laws in Metro Vancouver, winter tires are required on certain highways across BC from October 1 to April 30.

10 Essential Winter Items for Store-Front Businesses

Snowblower
Sturdy shovel
Ice melt or sand
Warning signs for slippery areas
Indoor and outdoor mats
Winter tires for company vehicles
Backup generator in case of power outages
Proper heating system maintenance
Emergency lighting
First aid kit for winter-related injuries

Preparing for winter ensures safety and compliance, helping businesses avoid costly penalties while keeping customers and employees safe. While both Germany and Vancouver have strict regulations for snow removal, Germany tends to have earlier deadlines for shoveling and restricts the use of salt to protect the environment. Vancouver allows salt but encourages eco-friendly alternatives. Additionally, Germany mandates winter tires in snowy conditions, whereas Vancouver only enforces them on certain highways.

Another key difference is the reliance on backup power. In Canada, many businesses invest in gasoline or diesel-powered generators to prepare for winter storms and power outages, whereas Germany, with its strong focus on renewable energy and environmental sustainability, promotes battery storage and alternative heating solutions. Electricity is also very reliable in Germany. Europe is very densely populated so building electric infrastructure to every town and village isn't that big of a challenge.

While generators provide critical backup power, they also release carbon emissions and contribute to air pollution. To reduce environmental impact, businesses should consider solar-powered generators or energy-efficient heating systems to keep operations running during winter storms. By balancing safety, compliance, and sustainability, businesses in both countries can effectively manage winter challenges.

Connect with Elke at Westcoast German Media

or on LinkedIn: Elke Porter or contact her on WhatsApp: +1 604 828 8788

#Winter Bylaws #Snow Removal #Germany Vs Canada #Business Preparedness #Eco Friendly Winter #Snow Safety #Germany Canada Business News #Elke Porter