10/09/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/09/2024 11:21
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Removing leaves keeps the sidewalk safe and accessible so that everyone can travel, particularly people who have accessibility needs or have a harder time getting around. It's not only the right thing to do - it's also the law. The area between your curb and property line, including sidewalks, planting strip areas, and vegetation, is your responsibility to maintain and keep in a state of good repair.
[Link]The areas in red in this graphic are the property owner or resident's responsibility to maintain and keep clear for everyone's safety and accessibility. This includes vegetation that intrudes on the full sidewalk width, or is under 8 feet of height. This also includes tree branches that extend into the street or alley, up to 14 feet high. Graphic credit: SDOT.Here are some specific tips on what you can do to make sure people in your neighborhood are safe when they walk, roll, bike, or drive by. If you are unable to do these things, please consider asking someone to help you.
Don't forget about unblocking clogged gutters! If a drain is blocked and rainwater can't drain properly, the area that people use to walk and roll can flood, particularly at the bottom of curb ramps. This makes the curb ramp difficult or impossible for people using manual wheelchairs to use. Remember, when you're clearing leaves, please make sure that they don't end up in the gutter. It's best to put leaves in your green food and yard waste bins.
[Link]Gutters starting to be clogged with fall leaves. Photo credit: Jeanné Clark.We encourage you to talk to your neighbors about what you can do together to keep your neighborhood safe for people walking and rolling. If you're physically able to help your neighbors who can't clear their sidewalks and nearby curb ramps, prune trees, or manage their vegetation in public areas - please consider checking on them and offering to help.
Learn more about sidewalk safety, tree pruning, maintenance, and more:
Even though winter is not here yet, it's important for everyone to get ready now for snow and icy winter weather conditions before they arrive.
We prepare for winter weather year-round. We work to keep the street clear of everything from fallen trees and branches to snow and ice, fix potholes so that streets are smooth, and repair signs and signals throughout the city. We also monitor conditions and ensure our crews are ready to go to work when high winds, heavy rain, or snow and ice are in the forecast.
We're getting ready, and so should you. Here's what you can do to prepare, and be ahead of the game before a storm hits:
Visit seattle.gov/transportation/winterweather for more information on winter weather. Additional resources regarding the City's overall winter storm response are also available at seattle.gov/winterweather.