With Winter finally arriving, Tamaqua Borough officials want to remind residents of regulations in place concerning snow removal and sidewalk safety.

Property owners are required to maintain a clear path, at least three feet wide, on sidewalks. Snow and/or ice must be removed from these pathways within 24 hours of the end of a snowstorm.Snow, ice and other materials may not be thrown into the streets. Fines of $25 and up may be imposed on anyone caught throwing snow or ice into the street, or who fails to maintain a snow-free pathway.In addition, individuals who plow snow from in front of homes and businesses must remove any piles of snow they create. Anyone piling snow in the street/parking areas could be cited.Residents are also to refrain from piling snow near fire hydrants or on top of storm drains and are encouraged to clear snow from these areas.In the event of a winter storm dumping measurable snow in Tamaqua, borough crews have established a procedure for snow removal operations. Streets selected for snow removal will be posted the day before operations are to begin. Start times will vary but may be as early as 12:01 a.m., depending on work schedules and conditions.Residents/motorists must move their vehicle from posted streets or face the possibility of having their vehicle ticketed and towed at their own expense.The borough's Street Department will be collecting discarded Christmas trees throughout January. Residents are to place their trees curbside on their regular trash collection days. Trees will be collected as time and weather permit.Trees must be free of all tinsel and decorations. Residents are reminded to remove any plastic bags from the trees.Trees may also be dropped off behind the Tamaqua Borough Garage, at 421 rear E. Broad St.No trees will be collected after Jan. 31.Further information is available by calling 570-668-3444 or 570-668-0300.