Boston Residents Frustrated Over Slow Snow Removal

City issued over 1,600 snow-related fines as sidewalks and crosswalks remain impassable

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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Weeks after a major winter storm dumped over 2 feet of snow on Boston, many sidewalks and crosswalks in the city remain treacherous and impassable. The city has issued over 1,600 snow-related fines to residents and businesses who failed to clear their sidewalks, but residents say the city's own snow removal efforts have been "atrocious." State Senator Nick Collins is calling on state agencies like MassDOT and the MBTA to assist Boston with clearing snow, while the ongoing issue of "space savers" - residents claiming parking spots they shoveled out - has also caused tensions in the city.

Why it matters

The slow pace of snow removal in Boston has left many sidewalks and streets dangerously obstructed, creating accessibility issues and potential safety hazards for pedestrians. The city's enforcement of snow removal rules has also sparked frustration among residents who feel the burden has fallen unfairly on them. The dispute over "space savers" highlights the community tensions that can arise during major winter storms.

The details

Boston's Department of Public Works has moved 89,000 cubic yards of snow to 11 local snow farms, but many sidewalks and crosswalks remain impassable. Homeowners and businesses are required to clear their sidewalks within 3 hours after a storm, but the city has issued over 1,600 snow-related fines so far. State Senator Nick Collins is calling on state agencies like MassDOT and the MBTA to assist Boston with snow removal, saying "we shouldn't be afraid to ask for help." The ongoing issue of "space savers" - residents claiming parking spots they shoveled out - has also caused tensions, with one incident leading to a stabbing in Dorchester.

  • On January 18, a major winter storm dumped over 2 feet of snow on Boston.
  • Between January 19 and February 2, the city of Boston issued 1,600 snow-related fines totaling $219,050.
  • As of February 5, many sidewalks and crosswalks in Boston remain treacherous and obstructed.

The players

Boston Department of Public Works (DPW)

The city agency responsible for snow removal and maintaining public infrastructure in Boston.

Nick Collins

A state senator representing part of Boston who is calling for more state assistance with snow removal efforts.

Catherine Hayden

A Boston resident frustrated with the poor condition of sidewalks in her South Boston neighborhood.

Katherine King

A Boston resident who spent hours shoveling her parking spot, only to have someone else claim it with a "space saver."

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What they’re saying

“It's been atrocious, it's been so bad. Every time you think you can walk one way, you can't, because you start crossing, and it's a complete snowbank there.”

— Catherine Hayden, Boston resident (WCVB)

“We shouldn't be afraid to ask for help and or should be willing to lend a helping hand.”

— Nick Collins, State Senator (WCVB)

“It's frustrating when you're following the rules and other people aren't.”

— Katherine King, Boston resident (WCVB)

What’s next

State Senator Nick Collins has written a letter asking MassDOT, the MBTA, and Massport to assist Boston with snow removal once their own work is complete. The city has also vowed to crack down on the use of "space savers" in the coming days.

The takeaway

The slow pace of snow removal in Boston has left many residents frustrated and concerned about public safety. While the city has issued thousands of fines, its own efforts have been criticized as inadequate. This highlights the need for better coordination and resource-sharing between different government agencies to ensure efficient snow removal and maintain accessibility during major winter storms.