Who’s responsible for clearing snow from Maryland bus stops?

The Maryland Transit Administration is clearing snow from bus stops and shelters across Baltimore City after this weekend’s winter storm dumped up to 10.8 inches of snow in parts of Maryland.

What’s Happening: MTA is assigning crews to clear snow from bus stops and shelters, prioritizing locations used by Baltimore City students or served by multiple bus routes. The agency is working with Baltimore City on the effort.

What’s Important: MTA doesn’t own the sidewalks where bus stops sit. Local governments own public rights of way, and property owners are required by law to clear snow and ice from sidewalks next to their buildings. In Baltimore City, MTA places bus stops through the Minor Privilege Permit process, which doesn’t change who’s responsible for maintaining the public space.

How This Affects Real People: Many riders depend on buses to reach work, school, and medical appointments. Uncleared bus stops can block access to transit during winter weather.

What We Know: MTA is coordinating with the Maryland Department of Emergency Management to ask hospitals to clear bus stops on or around their campuses. The weekend storm dropped between 3 and 10 inches of snow across Maryland. Clarksburg in Montgomery County recorded the highest total at 10.8 inches. Baltimore County locations including Cockeysville and Edgemere reported 10 inches and 9.2 inches.