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What You Need to Know About Commercial Snow Removal

  • jmelo67
  • Aug 24
  • 5 min read

By Jorge Melo


Man shoveling snow on a road beside an orange snowplow. Snowflakes fall, and text reads "What You Need to Know About Commercial Snow Removal - Southcoast MA."

Winter storms aren’t just an inconvenience — they’re a business risk. Every year, thousands of injuries in the U.S. are caused by slips and falls on snow and ice. For commercial property owners, that means liability, lost revenue, and unsafe conditions for employees and customers. So why are snow removal and de-icing so important? In our 35 years of business experience, we’ve seen how fast snow buildup leads to dangerous ice formation, blocked entrances, and reduced visibility on walkways and parking lots. Without proactive snow management, properties in places like Mattapoisett, MA, Rochester, MA, and New Bedford, MA can quickly become hazardous, costing businesses money and damaging reputations. The key is simple: consistent, professional snow removal keeps your property safe, compliant, and fully operational during winter’s worst.


Snow Removal Methods: Pros & Cons of Plowing, Shoveling & Salting


What are the key considerations when it comes to snow removal methods?


Choosing a snow removal method isn’t just about convenience. You must weigh safety, cost, efficiency, environmental impact, and compliance with local laws. Massachusetts law requires sidewalks and common areas to be kept clear of snow and ice — failing to do so can result in fines or lawsuits.


Why is choosing the right snow removal methods important for safety and efficiency?


Every hour of delay increases risks. Icy surfaces cause accidents, while poor removal methods may damage property or landscaping. The right approach balances speed, thoroughness, and prevention of re-freezing.


How do plowing, shoveling, and salting differ in their approaches to snow removal methods?


Plowing Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Fast, effective for large lots and roads. Can be combined with sanding for better traction immediately after clearing.

  • Cons: Expensive equipment, potential surface damage.


Shoveling Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Precise, ideal for small areas like sidewalks.

  • Cons: Labor-intensive, high injury risk, time-consuming.


Salting Pros and Cons

  • Pros: Prevents re-freezing, improves traction at entrances and walkways.

  • Cons: Requires repeat applications, can damage plants and concrete.

  • Important: Not properly salting entrances to buildings often leads to slip-and-fall accidents — a major cause of lawsuits for property owners.


How do the costs of equipment, labor, and materials vary for plowing, shoveling, and salting?


  • Plowing: Requires costly trucks/plows, but reduces labor time. Adding sanding equipment increases upfront cost but improves safety.

  • Shoveling: Cheapest in equipment, but most expensive in labor and health risks.

  • Salting/Sanding: Ongoing costs, but critical for traction. Skipping de-icing at entrances is often more expensive in the long run due to injury claims.


What are the environmental factors to consider when choosing snow removal methods?

Salt runoff harms landscaping and water supplies. Sand also poses cleanup challenges, as excess material can clog drains. Massachusetts regulations limit how de-icing materials are stored and applied.


Keeping State Regulation on Snow Removal Methods in Mind

According to Massachusetts law, property owners must clear snow/ice promptly (MGL c. 85 § 5). Depositing snow on state highways is prohibited, and chemicals must be stored properly to protect groundwater.


Which method is the quickest for clearing snow from driveways, sidewalks, or roads?

Plowing is fastest for large areas, especially when paired with sanding to keep roads and lots usable right away. Shoveling/salting are better for walkways and smaller, delicate spaces.


How do plowing, shoveling, and salting contribute to preventing accidents and injuries?

Each plays a role in safety. Plowing clears bulk snow, sanding ensures traction right after plowing, shoveling ensures detail work around entrances, and salting prevents icy slip hazards — especially at doorways where most accidents happen.


Using Professional Snow Removers to Prevent Accidents & Injuries

Hiring professionals reduces liability. Trained crews know how to combine plowing, sanding, and salting for maximum effectiveness while staying compliant with local rules.


The Impact of Snow on Commercial Properties


Snow delays hurt business. Blocked entrances deter customers, while icy lots risk accidents. For landscapers in Mattapoisett, MA and landscapers in Rochester, MA, timely clearing is critical for keeping clients’ properties safe and welcoming. Businesses in New Bedford, MA also rely on professional snow management to keep operations open through storms.


Determining the Right Snow Removal Frequency


  • High-traffic businesses: After every storm or weekly during heavy snow.

  • Low-traffic businesses: At minimum, after each storm to prevent compaction and ice.


Top Benefits of Partnering With a Commercial Snow Removal Provider


1. Enhanced Visibility & Safety

Clear lots reduce accidents and improve traffic flow.


2. Reduced Legal Liability

Professional care helps avoid lawsuits.


3. Compliance With Local Regulations

Keeps properties in line with Massachusetts and municipal laws.


4. Cost & Time Efficiency

Saves business owners from buying/maintaining heavy equipment.


5. Access to Specialized Equipment & Materials

Commercial providers use plows, sanders, blowers, salt spreaders, and eco-friendly deicers.


How to Prepare for Winter With a Snow Removal Plan


  • Inspect high-risk areas like entrances and docks.

  • Partner with an experienced provider.

  • Customize a removal schedule.

  • Establish emergency protocols.

  • Maintain open communication during storms.


Massachusetts law about snow and ice


Massachusetts laws

  • Property owners must clear sidewalks and report accidents within 30 days.

  • Cities/towns can fine non-compliance.


Massachusetts regulations

  • Landlords must maintain safe stairs and walkways.

  • Chemicals for de-icing must not contaminate water supplies.


Complaints regarding snow


Who should I contact?

Contact your local DPW or Board of Health. Many towns also offer 311 apps for reporting issues.


Accessibility violations in snow removal from sidewalks

The Massachusetts Office on Disability accepts reports of snow/ice obstructing accessible routes.


Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Snow Removal

Q: How much does commercial snow removal cost? A: Costs vary by property size, terrain, and snowfall volume. Most providers offer free quotes.

Q: What equipment is used? A: Plows, sanders, shovels, blowers, loaders, salt spreaders, and eco-friendly ice melt.

Q: What’s the difference between plowing and removal? A: Plowing pushes snow aside. Removal hauls snow off-site entirely.

Q: Why hire professionals instead of doing it in-house? A: It saves time, reduces liability, and ensures compliance with local law.

Q: Does New England Tree & Landscape provide snow removal in Mattapoisett, MA, Rochester, MA, and New Bedford, MA? A: Yes. New England Tree & Landscape is the go-to option for snow removal and de-icing services across Plymouth and Bristol Counties. Our team ensures entrances are salted properly, walkways are safe, and businesses stay compliant with local laws.


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