Professional Snow Removal Services in Norfolk, MA

Norfolk Winter Weather & Snow Removal Resources

Snow removal is a critical legal responsibility for property owners throughout Norfolk, MA. Town ordinances and state laws establish clear requirements for timely snow and ice removal from sidewalks, driveways, and entryways, directly impacting pedestrian safety, accessibility, and municipal operations. Strict enforcement protocols are in place, with defined timeframes, clearance standards, and escalating penalties for non-compliance, ensuring all residents and businesses uphold their obligations during winter months.

Norfolk Department of Public Works
33 Medway Branch Road, Norfolk, MA 02056
Phone: (508) 520-8580
Official Website: Norfolk Department of Public Works

Understanding Norfolk's Snow Removal Ordinances and Legal Requirements

Norfolk enforces specific snow removal ordinances that require property owners to maintain clear and safe passage on sidewalks and adjacent public ways. In accordance with Massachusetts General Law Chapter 85, Section 5, municipalities have authority to set local standards for snow and ice removal. As of the most recent available town regulations, property owners in Norfolk must:

• Clear Sidewalks and Entrances: All snow and ice must be removed from sidewalks abutting their property within 24 hours after the end of a snowfall. Overnight accumulations must be addressed by noon the following day.
• Maintain Minimum Passage Width: Sidewalks must be cleared to a minimum width of 36 inches to accommodate pedestrians and mobility devices.
• Ice Mitigation: In the event removal is not possible, the area must be treated with sand, salt, or similar materials to ensure traction and safety.
• Street Deposition Prohibited: It is expressly prohibited to deposit snow or ice onto public streets, sidewalks, or abutting properties.

For reference, see the Town of Norfolk Snow Removal Policy (PDF) for official details.

Norfolk Inspectional Services / Code Enforcement
1 Liberty Lane, Norfolk, MA 02056
Phone: (508) 528-1408
Official Website: Norfolk Inspectional Services

• Fine Structure: Failure to comply may result in fines of $50 per day for residential properties and $100 per day for commercial properties. Depositing snow onto public streets carries additional fines of $100 per incident. Each day of violation is considered a separate offense.

Norfolk Neighborhood Snow Management Challenges

Distinct neighborhoods in Norfolk present unique challenges for snow removal, influenced by topography, building types, and infrastructure configurations. The following list highlights neighborhood-specific factors impacting effective winter weather management:

• Town Center: High pedestrian activity, mixed-use buildings, and on-street parking create limited space for snow storage and require frequent clearing to maintain accessibility.
• Pondville: Sloped roads and proximity to water bodies complicate plowing and increase risks of ice accumulation, especially near intersections and driveways.
• Valley Street Corridor: Narrow streets, mature tree canopies, and older housing stock make equipment maneuvering more difficult, necessitating coordinated efforts.
• Medway Branch Area: Predominantly residential with larger lots but long driveways, leading to extended clearing times and additional considerations for elderly residents.
• Campbell Road District: Features cul-de-sacs and winding roads, requiring specialized plowing routes and attention to dead-end access points.

Municipal Snow Operations and Emergency Response

The Norfolk Department of Public Works manages municipal snow removal operations for approximately 60 lane miles of public roadways, divided into multiple plowing routes based on priority. Arterial roads and designated emergency routes receive initial attention, followed by secondary and residential streets. Coordination of snow and ice control is critical to maintaining safe travel conditions and emergency access throughout the community.

Norfolk Office of Emergency Management
1 Liberty Lane, Norfolk, MA 02056
Phone: (508) 528-1300
Official Website: Norfolk Emergency Management

• Plow Operations: Residents should be aware that municipal plows may create windrows (snow piles) at driveway entrances during street clearing. Property owners are responsible for removing these accumulations to maintain access.
• Side Street Schedules: Plowing of side streets and cul-de-sacs may occur after main routes. Monitoring town notifications and understanding local plow schedules is advised.
• Snow Emergency Declarations: The town will issue alerts regarding snow emergencies, parking bans, and plow schedules via the official website and local news outlets.
• Contractor Coordination: Private contractors should coordinate with municipal operations to avoid conflicts and ensure timely clearing of both public and private spaces.

Snow Emergency Parking and Space Saver Policies

Norfolk does not permit the use of informal "space savers" in public parking areas following snow events. Instead, the town institutes official snow emergency parking bans when warranted by storm conditions. During an active parking ban, parking is prohibited on all designated snow emergency routes, and vehicles in violation may be subject to towing at the owner's expense. Residents receive alerts via town notifications, the municipal website, and local radio stations.

• Parking Ban Enforcement: Vehicles must be moved from marked snow emergency routes for the duration of the ban. Towing fees and storage costs apply for non-compliance.
• Alternative Parking: Residents should utilize private driveways or designated municipal lots during active bans. Refer to the DPW website for updates on snow emergency declarations.

Filing Snow Removal Complaints Through 311 or Municipal Reporting System

Norfolk does not utilize a 311 system. Residents may report snow removal violations or accessibility concerns directly to the Department of Public Works or via the online reporting portal on the town website. Reports can be submitted by phone, email, or through the "Report a Concern" feature on the municipal website. For violations related to accessibility or ADA compliance, contact the Massachusetts Office on Disability.

• Phone Reporting: (508) 520-8580 (DPW)
• Online Reporting: Report a Concern - Norfolk DPW
• Email: publicworks@norfolk.ma.us

MA 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

Massachusetts law holds property owners to a strict standard of care regarding snow and ice hazards. The Supreme Judicial Court decision in Papadopoulos v. Target Corp., 457 Mass. 368 (2010) established that all accumulations, whether natural or artificial, must be addressed with reasonable diligence. Owners are required to maintain safe conditions not only on sidewalks but also in parking areas, entrances, and stairways. Under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 84, Section 15, those injured due to failure to remove snow and ice may pursue claims for dangerous conditions. For such claims, a 30-day notice is required as stipulated by Massachusetts General Law Chapter 84, Sections 18-20.

• Reasonable Care Obligation: All owners must take proactive steps to eliminate snow and ice hazards and prevent foreseeable injuries.
• Scope of Duty: Responsibilities extend to all areas accessible to the public or invitees, including walkways, parking lots, and building entries.
• Notice Requirement: Injury claims require written notice to the municipality within 30 days of the incident to preserve legal rights.

Neighborhoods We Serve Throughout Norfolk

Town Center: The core of Norfolk features a mix of small businesses, civic buildings, and medium-density residential properties. Street parking, pedestrian foot traffic, and frequent municipal activities make timely, coordinated snow removal essential for safety and accessibility.

Pondville: This neighborhood includes spacious single-family homes, wooded lots, and proximity to ponds and wetlands. Snow removal is challenged by winding roads, elevation changes, and the need for careful management near sensitive environmental areas.

Medway Branch District: A primarily residential area characterized by longer driveways, cul-de-sacs, and larger homes. Access for plows and equipment requires planning, especially for elderly residents or those with mobility needs.

Valley Street Corridor: Older homes, narrow streets, and mature landscaping create unique obstacles for snow storage and equipment maneuvering. Coordination between property owners and municipal crews is vital for maintaining clear passageways.

Campbell Road Area: Defined by a combination of modern developments and established residences, this district features multiple dead-ends and private roads, requiring both municipal and private contractor cooperation for complete coverage.

Rockwood Road: A major thoroughfare with commercial businesses, schools, and community facilities. High vehicle and pedestrian traffic necessitate rapid snow clearing and attention to crosswalks and bus stops.

Lover's Lane: Rural in character, with scattered homes and limited lighting. Snow removal must address drifting and ensure safe routes for emergency services.

Seekonk Street Area: This corridor encompasses neighborhoods with a variety of housing types, including condominiums and apartments. Parking density and multiple access points require flexible scheduling and constant monitoring during storms.

Boardman Street District: Featuring both historic homes and newer construction, this area faces challenges with narrow lots and mature trees. Preservation considerations may limit snow storage locations, necessitating careful coordination.

Freeman-Campbell Neighborhood: Suburban layout with moderate residential density. Sidewalks and intersection clearing are top priorities to accommodate school bus routes and community activities.

Green Street Area: Mix of single-family homes and farmland. Long, private driveways and open fields can lead to snow drifting, requiring additional passes by municipal plows.

Stony Brook District: Residential zone adjacent to conservation land and public trails. Snow removal must focus on maintaining access to trailheads, parking lots, and ensuring egress for emergency vehicles.