Professional Snow Shoveling Services in Boston

Boston Snow Shoveling Services & Manual Snow Removal

Boston’s municipal code mandates that property owners clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property within three hours after snowfall ends during the day, or within three hours after sunrise if the snow stops overnight. This requirement applies equally to both manually shoveled walkways and mechanically plowed surfaces. Immediate compliance is essential for public safety and accessibility, regardless of the chosen snow removal method. Manual snow shoveling remains vital for precision clearing along narrow walkways, historic brick sidewalks, and areas adjacent to delicate landscaping where mechanical plows may cause damage. However, manual removal presents distinct safety challenges, necessitating proper technique, physical readiness, and awareness of health risks.

Boston Public Works Department
1 City Hall Square, Room 714, Boston, MA 02201
Phone: 311 or (617) 635-4500
Official Website: Boston Public Works

Health and Safety Warnings for Snow Shoveling Activities

Extensive medical research has identified snow shoveling as a high-risk cardiac activity, with a marked increase in heart attack events following major snowstorms. The physical demands of shoveling—especially in cold temperatures, which constrict blood vessels—can be hazardous, particularly for individuals over 45, those with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, and those who are sedentary. The combination of cold exposure, heavy lifting, and sustained exertion significantly elevates risk of cardiac events.

American Heart Association – Heart Attack Warning Signs
Phone: (800) 242-8721
Official Website: American Heart Association

• High-risk groups who should avoid manual snow shoveling:
  • Adults over 50 with cardiac history or risk factors
  • Individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, or high cholesterol
  • Those recovering from heart attacks or cardiac procedures
  • People with musculoskeletal conditions or balance impairment
  • Sedentary individuals lacking regular cardiovascular conditioning
• Cardiac warning signs requiring immediate 911 response:
  • Chest discomfort, pressure, or tightness
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, or nausea
  • Cold sweat, unusual fatigue or weakness
  • Discomfort in arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach

Research indicates the risk of heart attack rises nearly 20% after snowstorms, with most incidents occurring during or immediately after shoveling. Individuals in high-risk groups should arrange for professional snow removal, seek family or neighbor assistance, or utilize municipal assistance programs rather than attempt manual shoveling themselves.

Accessible Path Requirement for Manual Snow Clearing

Boston city ordinance (Boston Code of Ordinances, Section 16-12.16) requires property owners to maintain accessible sidewalks by clearing a path at least 42 inches wide, or the full width of the sidewalk if it is less. These requirements are designed to ensure accessibility for wheelchair users, individuals with mobility devices, and all pedestrians, in accordance with ADA standards. Proper snow and ice removal is essential for safe, equitable passage throughout the city’s sidewalks and curb ramps.

Massachusetts 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

• Accessible path clearing standards:
  • Minimum width: 42 inches clear for wheelchair passage
  • Clear to pavement: Remove snow completely exposing walking surface
  • Ice treatment required: Apply sand, sawdust, or ice melt after clearing
  • Curb ramp priority: Clear ramps completely including bottom transitions
  • Cross-slope management: Prevent ice dam formation creating barriers
• Critical accessibility considerations:
  • Clear ramps before general sidewalks, prioritizing accessibility
  • Avoid piling snow blocking accessible parking spaces or access aisles
  • Maintain tactile warning surface functionality at curb ramps
  • Ensure level transitions without ice ridges at crossings
  • Keep catch basins clear preventing flooding and refreezing hazards

Senior Citizen and Disability Snow Shoveling Assistance Programs

Boston and neighboring Massachusetts communities administer assistance programs to help seniors, individuals with disabilities, and low-income residents comply with snow removal requirements. These programs are crucial for residents whose physical limitations prevent them from safely managing snow and ice on their property. Assistance is provided through both municipal agencies and community volunteer networks, ensuring vulnerable populations receive essential winter safety support.

Boston Age Strong Commission
1 City Hall Square, Room 271, Boston, MA 02201
Phone: (617) 635-4366
Official Website: Age Strong Commission

• Available snow shoveling assistance programs:
  • Municipal Programs:
    • Age-based eligibility (typically 60+ years)
    • Disability verification requirements
    • Application during fall enrollment periods
    • Limited availability based on volunteer capacity
    • Priority for isolated seniors with no family support
  • Community Volunteer Networks:
    • Neighborhood snow angels programs
    • Youth service organizations earning community service credits
    • Faith-based congregation assistance networks
    • Online volunteer matching platforms
• How to access assistance:
  • Contact local Council on Aging or senior services department
  • Register during pre-winter enrollment (typically October–November)
  • Verify eligibility with age or disability documentation
  • Understand service limitations (typically walkways and steps, not full driveways)
  • Maintain backup plans when volunteers are unavailable

Environmental Protection and Sustainable Snow Shoveling Practices

Manual snow shoveling offers opportunities for environmentally responsible snow management, minimizing chemical use and protecting both landscaping and urban water quality. The Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection encourages sustainable winter maintenance practices to reduce salt runoff, shield vegetation, and preserve green infrastructure. Adopting these strategies in manual snow removal helps prevent chemical de-icer damage to plants, soil, and local waterways, ensuring a healthier environment for all residents.

MA Department of Environmental Protection
One Winter Street, Boston, MA 02108
Phone: (617) 292-5500
Official Website: Mass DEP

• Environmentally-friendly manual shoveling practices:
  • Minimize salt application: Use sand or sawdust for traction instead
  • Protect tree wells: Avoid piling salt-contaminated snow around trees and planted areas
  • Strategic snow placement: Pile snow in areas where spring melt won’t damage landscaping
  • Green de-icing alternatives: Consider calcium magnesium acetate or beet juice-based products
  • Storm drain protection: Keep catch basins clear without depositing salt-heavy snow nearby
  • Landscaping preservation: Avoid scraping metal shovels against delicate surfaces

Snow Shoveling Services Throughout Boston Neighborhoods

Our professional snow shoveling services extend throughout Boston's diverse neighborhoods, providing manual clearing for properties where precision, surface protection, or access limitations require hand-work rather than mechanical equipment.

Beacon Hill: Historic brick sidewalks, narrow passageways, and terraced steps make Beacon Hill particularly dependent on manual snow shoveling. The preservation of heritage surfaces and avoidance of damage to wrought iron fencing require careful hand removal techniques.

Back Bay: Elegant brownstones and landscaped walkways in Back Bay often feature intricate garden beds and stonework. Manual clearing protects ornamental elements and ensures access for residents and visitors, especially along Commonwealth Avenue’s mall and side streets.

South End: With its tree-lined streets, raised stoops, and multi-unit residences, the South End presents challenges for mechanical equipment. Manual shoveling is essential for narrow sidewalks, stairways, and maintaining access to building entrances.

North End: Dense, historic blocks with limited sidewalk width and numerous curb ramps require hand shoveling for compliance and accessibility. The area’s older infrastructure and frequent pedestrian traffic heighten the need for meticulous manual snow removal.

Jamaica Plain: Residential streets with mature landscaping, gardens, and steep driveways in Jamaica Plain benefit from the precision of manual snow shoveling. Care is taken to preserve established plantings and safely access sloped walkways.

Roslindale & West Roxbury: Family-oriented neighborhoods with single-family homes, elderly residents, and stepped entryways often require manual service for steps, decks, and narrow side yards. Senior populations and accessibility needs are prominent considerations.

Charlestown: Historic townhouses, brick courtyards, and a variety of property sizes in Charlestown result in frequent manual snow removal needs, particularly in areas where staircases and compact spaces limit equipment access.

Fenway/Kenmore: Multi-unit buildings, student residences, and busy walkways around Fenway and Kenmore demand frequent, precise manual snow clearing for safety. Attention to curb ramps, crosswalks, and heavily trafficked entryways is crucial.