City warns of fines if sidewalks go uncleared

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - Indianapolis is reminding property owners that it is their responsibility to clear snow from sidewalks, not the city's. And uncleared sidewalks could even result in fines for the property owner.

City code says the business or occupant of any residence is "...required to keep the sidewalks in front of or adjacent to such premises cleared..." of snow and ice so the public can use the sidewalks.

The penalty for not doing so can include a fine.

Another public safety concern with the snow still piled up: fire hydrants.

Mike Pruitt, with Wayne Township Fire Department, explained the potential nightmare scenario:

“There have been fires throughout the years that I've responded on where individuals had to get off the fire truck, get out a shovel and literally dig the hydrant out before they could make a connection, and those minutes are precious when we have a fire," he said.

Home and business owners are asked to make sure to clear snow from around hydrants, so firefighters can have quick access.