Minot property owners would get more time to remove snow from sidewalks under an ordinance approved on first reading by the Minot City Council Monday.

The new sidewalk snow removal regulations would extend the timeframe for property owners to clear sidewalks from 24 hours to 72 hours. Allowing residents more time to manage snow and ice after a storm is expected to allow for better results and promote safer pedestrian access, according to the Public Works Department.

The new language includes clearing pedestrian curb ramps and provides for a $150 fine for violations.

It also would become a criminal infraction to deposit snow or ice on a city street or sidewalk or against a fire hydrant or traffic signal device or sign or any loading and unloading area of a public transportation system or emergency access. A violation would be subject to a $150 fine for a first offense, $250 for a second offense and $350 for a third offense in a year. A fourth offense over a two-year period would become a Class B misdemeanor.

The council will need to act on the ordinance on second reading before it can be implemented.