Following the winter chaos seen in recent weeks, the CDU and SPD in Berlin are preparing a comprehensive reform of sidewalk snow and ice removal. The “Tagesspiegel” reports that the coalition plans to overhaul the current regulations governing the obligation to clear streets. Nationwide, Berlin has faced well‑known problems with snow removal, prompting the need for change.
Under the new proposal, individual property owners would no longer be sole responsible for clearing or hiring a winter service. Instead, a central allocation system for specific municipal areas is being considered, while the costs would still be borne by the owners. The model could mimic the city’s existing practice of commissioning chimney sweepers, aiming to guarantee that sidewalks are reliably and promptly cleared of snow and ice.
Recently, many Berlin residents slipped on icy and snowy sidewalks that had remained uncleared for days, leading to numerous broken‑bone injuries and medical admissions. Elderly and disabled people avoided going outside, and even local businesses reported a decline in sales.