All Vancouver sidewalks, not just those in front of businesses or multi-unit buildings, have to be cleared under the provisions of a new bylaw. (CBC)

As the first substantial snowfall of the season swept across Vancouver late Monday, residents and property owners found themselves having to abide by a new snow-clearing bylaw in the city.

Under the new bylaw, sidewalks in front of all residences and businesses must be cleared by 10 a.m. the day after a snowfall, seven days a week.

Prior to the bylaw change on Dec. 3, only businesses and multi-unit structures like apartment buildings had to have the snow cleared.

That left many Vancouverites living in areas with single-family homes to trudge through blocks of snowy sidewalks — a bothersome and sometimes dangerous enterprise.

Hefty fines possible

Property owners who don't comply with the new bylaw face fines of up to $2,000.

But the city said it was not going to crack down right away. Although city inspectors would be checking for cleared sidewalks, they would be issuing warnings rather than tickets.

"If it's just a light dusting," said assistant city engineer Neal Carley. "I don't think anyone is going to be too worried about it. But if it's greater accumulations and people are having trouble getting around, that's when we really take notice."

If the city ends up having to clear sidewalks itself, negligent property owners could be billed for the cost of that work in addition to the fine, according to the city's website.

"This charge may include labour and materials as well as any administration, fringe benefits and overhead costs," the website said.