Snow Shoveling Etiquette: What Not To Do So Your Neighbors Don't Hate You

No one likes to shovel the driveway — it's a tough task that takes time, effort, and patience. But imagine going through the hassle of snow removal just to later find out that you've deeply upset the neighbors. Yikes! If you want to avoid any kind of crucial snow shoveling mistakes that can cause friction with the people around you, then understanding proper snow shoveling etiquette is critically important. Some obvious rules to live by include not shoveling or blowing snow from your driveway directly into your neighbors driveway or yard, but that's not the only unwritten rule you need to know.

Other kind-hearted tasks you can perform to keep the neighborhood happy include shoveling the sidewalk in front of your house and helping elderly neighbors by clearing their driveways for them. Even for neighbors who aren't elderly, if they have a regular plastic shovel and you have a snowblower – this tool makes snow removal so much easier – do the right thing and give them a hand. In some cases, failing to properly remove snow from your driveway isn't just rude, it can also result in serious fines from the city.

When considering proper snow shoveling etiquette, the first rule of thumb is to fully clear your driveway, the sidewalk in front of your home, and your front stoop. In some states, it's expected that you remove snow within 24 hours of snowfall. You should also shovel out garbage and recycling bins to avoid any fines from the city. Don't forget to avoid common snow shoveling mistakes such as using a dull, heavy shovel or scooping up too much snow at once.

Once the snow is removed, adding some sand or salt will help prevent neighbors and visitors from slipping. The next most important aspect to consider is where you discard the snow. Instead of heaving the snow from your driveway into your nieghbor's yard, make neat, out-of-the-way piles that won't impede anyone from getting around. Avoid making piles on the street and instead stick to your own backyard.

Another thing you can do to keep the neighborhood happy is to offer help whenever possible. If you live next to seniors or individuals with disabilities, for example, shovel their driveway for them when you're out doing yours. Offering a friendly smile and greeting when you're shoveling at the same time as your neighbor also goes a long way. And if you're the lucky person on the block with a snowblower, help out those with flimsy plastic shovels. Just remember if you commit to shoveling or snowblowing someone else's driveway one winter, it's expected that you'll do it the next as well. On the flip side, if you're the one receiving help from a neighbor, pay back the favor by raking their leaves in the fall, cutting their grass in the summer, or simply sending over some baked goods to show thanks.