What does Ontario law say about snow removal?

Under the RTA and Ontario's maintenance standards (O. Reg. 517/06), landlords must ensure walkways, parking areas, and exterior common areas are kept clear of snow and ice. Municipal by-laws in Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Hamilton, and most Ontario cities also require snow clearing within 24 hours of a snowfall. Failure creates both RTA liability and municipal fine risk.

Can a lease transfer snow removal to the tenant?

Ontario leases can include a clause that transfers specific maintenance duties (like snow removal) to the tenant, but only for single-family rentals, not multi-unit buildings. Even in single-family rentals, the clause must be explicitly negotiated and included in the lease — verbal agreements don't count. If the lease is silent on snow removal, the landlord is responsible.

Snow removal cost Ontario 2026

Most Ontario municipalities require walkways cleared within 24 hours of a snowfall ending. For tenant safety, landlords should clear by morning after overnight snowfall. Ice control (salting) should be applied before freezing rain events when possible. Failure to clear ice that injures a tenant or visitor creates significant liability.

When should snow removal happen?

Most Ontario municipalities require walkways cleared within 24 hours of a snowfall ending. For tenant safety, landlords should clear by morning after overnight snowfall. Ice control (salting) should be applied before freezing rain events when possible. Failure to clear ice that injures a tenant or visitor creates significant liability.

Snow Removal: Landlord\

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