In Kaiserslautern city and district, tenants may be responsible for clearing sidewalks and even streets. Miss the deadlines and you could face fines or legal trouble. (Dylan Burnell/U.S. Army)

In Rheinland-Pfalz, property owners and often their tenants are responsible for clearing snow and ice from public sidewalks and roads bordering their property.

In Kaiserslautern city and district, sidewalks must be cleared by 7 a.m. Monday through Saturday and by 9 a.m. on Sundays and holidays. If snowfall continues, the path must be cleared again. Snow or ice that accumulates after 8 p.m. must be removed the next morning.

Unless handled by city services, the responsibility extends to the center of the roadway. On streets with buildings on only one side, that obligation can reach up to 10 meters, or about 33 feet, from your property line. This often means clearing the entire street.

Road salt is banned in most cases due to environmental concerns and may only be used during extreme conditions like freezing rain. Use sand, sawdust or other gritty materials instead to improve traction.

Failure to maintain sidewalks properly can result in fines up to 500 euros. If someone is injured on a surface you are responsible for, you could be held liable.

Check your rental agreement or ask your landlord for specific guidance.