According to the National Weather Service, snow showers are expected to last throughout the morning today in Jefferson.

However, with winter just starting up in Iowa, more snow will be on the way and so Jefferson residents should be reminded about the City’s snow removal ordinance for property owners.

Building Inspector and Code Enforcer Tom Heater says within 12 hours after a snow occurrence has past, a property owner is responsible to remove snow and ice from their sidewalks.  A property owner is not allowed to deposit snow onto any street without permission from the City.

Heater talks about the potential penalty a property owner could face if they fail to adhere to the ordinance.

“We will notify them initially of it.  If they still do not clear it, we will go in a clear it.  Our fine is $130 per hour so it’s really much cheaper even if they are a snowbird to make arrangements to have someone take care of that for them.”

If you contract with have someone remove your snow, Heater suggests that you make sure that the contractor is insured.  It’s not a requirement by the City, just a good idea.

Anyone with questions about the ordinance, can contact Heater at City Hall at 386-3111.