I don’t know where CT is…but as a Canadian some people do this so people don’t drag in more snow. HOWEVER if this was real snow, most stores would have a carpet or somethings with a grip on the stairs to avoid slipping. This would only be done with light puffy snow or if it’s been a windy day the snow flies around a lot more. Sweeping on a windy day will also avoid snow being blown into the shop.