Salt/sand mixture available for residents to treat icy sidewalks

December 19, 2025 - ROCHESTER, MINNESOTA - Following yesterday's rain and snowmelt, and with freeze/thaw cycles likely in the coming week, Rochester Public Works is reminding property owners of their responsibility to keep sidewalks clear of snow and ice. These changing conditions can quickly create slippery surfaces, and timely removal is essential to help prevent accidents and keep our community safe during the winter months.

Residents can obtain a bucket of free salt/sand mixture to help address ice issues that occur during the freeze/thaw cycles that are common at this time of the year. There are two locations in Rochester where residents can find this mix: in northeast behind Fiesta Café in the Northbrook Shopping Center and in southwest at the end of 1 Avenue SW next to the First & Banks Apartments. Residents must bring their own supplies as buckets/bags and shovels are not provided. Residents are encouraged to sweep up any salt and sand left on bare pavement to save it for future re-use and to prevent it from running off into nearby waterways.

Rochester Code of Ordinances 9-6-2 requires property owners with a public sidewalk or path abutting their property to fully remove snow and ice within 24-hours after a snowfall. The full sidewalk width must be free of snow and ice. For pathways wider than a traditional sidewalk, a path that is at least 5 feet wide needs to be cleared. More information about the ordinance and enforcement program is available here.

Individuals aged 60+ and people with disabilities in need of assistance with clearing snow can contact Family Service Rochester (507-287-2010) to arrange, in advance, sidewalk snow removal. There is a sliding scale fee for this service. People who want to assist someone with sidewalk snow removal can register to volunteer here.

"When snow is here, you have 24 hours to clear!"