With the German Weather Service (DWD) predicting that wintry conditions could persist for several days, particularly in northern parts of the country, it’s important to understand your responsibilities regarding snow clearing and gritting.
Winter in Germany often brings snow and icy conditions, transforming roads and pavements into slippery hazards. If you’re new to the country, it’s essential to know your legal obligations.
As a general rule, residents in Germany are advised to check local winter maintenance regulations, clarify their responsibilities and, if necessary, make sure they have appropriate insurance cover in case of accidents.
Who must clear snow and spread grit?
In most cases, the responsibility for keeping pavements and access paths safe falls to property owners or landlords.
If you’re renting, this duty can be passed to you, but only if it’s clearly stated in your tenancy agreement. A casual mention in the house rules isn’t enough, and there’s no unwritten expectation for ground-floor tenants to take on the task.
Local authorities also play a part, especially when it comes to public roads and major walkways. Municipalities are required to act swiftly when snow or black ice appears, either by handling the work themselves or by hiring private contractors.
However, don’t expect every street or path to be cleared at all times – residents are expected to adapt to winter conditions.
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What needs to be cleared?
If you’re responsible for winter maintenance, you’ll need to ensure the pavement in front of your home is cleared and gritted to a width of at least 1.5 metres – enough for two people to pass comfortably.
Paths leading to entrances, bins or garages should be at least half a metre wide. When gritting, use sand, gravel or grit; road salt is often banned for environmental reasons and only allowed in extreme conditions.
Timing and frequency
You’re not expected to shovel continuously during heavy snowfall. Instead, clear the area promptly once the snow stops – usually within half an hour.
If black ice is forecast overnight, take preventive action before morning. If you’re unable to do the work yourself, it’s your responsibility to arrange for someone else, such as a neighbour, to help.
Where should the snow go?
Rules about where to put cleared snow vary. In some towns, pushing snow onto public pavements or roads can result in fines.
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Generally, it’s best to pile snow on your own property. If that’s not possible, it’s usually permitted create piles of snow by the side of the road, provided they don’t obstruct traffic or visibility.
You should be able to find the rules which apply to you easily enough on the website of your local authority.
Insurance and liability
Accidents can happen, and if someone slips and is injured outside your property, they may claim damages.
If you’ve followed the rules, you shouldn’t be held liable. If you haven’t, tenants and homeowners are usually covered by private liability insurance, while landlords and property owners should have home and property owner liability insurance.
But failing to meet your snow-clearing duties – whether through neglect or absence – can lead to fines of up to €10,000 in serious cases.
With reporting by AFP.
