The Town of Okotoks is encouraging residents to keep safety top of mind and make sure their sidewalks are shovelled.

Residents have within 24 hours after a snow event to clear the sidewalks around their property or they could face a $250 penalty.

Kelly Steinwand, Municipal Enforcement Manager for the Town, says the bylaw is about community safety.

"This is about working with the community and just trying to encourage people to get out there, clean the sidewalks off, and ensure that we're providing that community safety piece for people and pedestrians, kids getting to the bus, those sorts of things. It's just important for everyone."

Steinwand says most condos have property management that will take care of snow removal but tenants renting a home should double check with their landlords.

"If you are renting a residence or a home you are responsible as the occupant to ensure that you remove the snow, and a lot of residents don't know that, they think 'well I'm renting this house from somebody, it's their responsibility to clean the sidewalk' when in fact it's the renter's responsibility."

He adds snow should be shovelled onto residents' own yards or private property and not onto the street as it could create a safety hazard.

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