When it snows, City crews sand, salt and plow roads in priority order. If you must travel during periods of heavy snow, please use caution and give yourself extra time to reach your destination. Driving conditions may be treacherous, especially on inclines and side streets.
The City reminds residents and businesses that they are responsible for clearing snow/ice from sidewalks and footpaths around their property. Please shovel and apply de-icer/salt within 24 hours after snow has stopped falling or ice has formed (6234 C).
Avoid parking on the street. This will allow snow plows and salt trucks the room required to safely clear streets. This is particularly important on cul-de-sacs and narrow roadways.
Snow & Ice Removal
The City monitors road and weather conditions throughout the winter. When snow and icy conditions are forecast, crews and equipment are dispatched to clear roads on a priority basis. We appreciate your patience during snow events, as municipal crews work to keep your streets clear and safe.
Priority road route map for snow clearing
- Priority one - Major arterial streets, bus routes, and access to emergency services, like hospitals
- Priority two - Collector streets and streets leading to schools
- Priority three - Local streets
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- Please note: Local streets (priority 3) are cleared only after snow and ice conditions on priority 1 and 2 routes have stabilized. When snowfall is continual, it may take longer for plows to reach local streets as first and second priority streets will require additional attention. Lanes/alleys are not plowed.
Trails & Multi-use Pathways
Municipal crews salt and clear trails/multi-use pathways in order of priority:
- Sections of trails and multi-use paths near schools
- Remaining sections of trails and multi- use pathways
- Artificial turf playing fields (only if not frozen)
Your Role as a Resident or Business
Clearing snow and de-icing sidewalks and footpaths in front of your property is your responsibility. You can help keep pedestrians, customers, tenants and residents safe from slips and falls during snow events.
Please clear snow or ice and salt sidewalks and footpaths around your property within 24 hours after snow has stopped falling or ice has formed (Bylaw 6234). Ensure gutters and storm drains in front of your home are clear of snow, ice, leaves and other debris. This will allow for proper drainage of rain and melted snow, reducing the risk of flooding.
- If you cannot clear snow yourself, prearrange with a family, neighbours or a snow removal service
- Do not shovel snow onto the street.
- Failing to clear your sidewalk or property impacts the safety of pedestrians, particularly seniors
What You Can Do Before Snowfall:
- Get supplies early
- Have a shovel and supply of salt or eco-friendly de-icer ready
- Keep an emergency kit and supplies in your home, office and car
- Ensure your vehicle is ready for winter driving
- If needed, make alternate arrangements to commute to work, school, or appointments
What You Can Do When it Snows:
- Shovel early and often
- Be a snow angel and help your neighbours
- Drive only if necessary or take transit
- Avoid parking on the street to allow snow plows and salt trucks to safely clear streets
- Observe posted signs that restrict on-street parking during periods of heavy snow
- Do not abandon your car if it gets stuck, as it may obstruct snow clearing and could be ticketed and/or towed
- Check on neighbours and family members, especially if they are elderly
Garbage, Green Can & Recycling Collection
During a snow event, it may be necessary for the City to suspend or delay collection of garbage, yard trimmings and recycling.
If your collection is missed, remove materials from the curb and set them out next week. We understand the inconvenience, and we thank you for your patience. Container limits will be increased to accommodate the missed pickup.
Check School Closures
Schools can also be affected by heavy snowfall. In the event of a major snowfall, local area schools may be closed. Please check the websites for more information.
- North Vancouver School District: www.sd44.ca
- West Vancouver School District: westvancouverschools.ca or 604-981-1234 (24 hours)
- Independent/Private Schools: Please contact school directly.
Winter Storm Safety Tips
Winter weather has arrived and everyone should be prepared and know what to do in extreme weather conditions. Prepare for an emergency. Keep an emergency kit and supplies in your home, office and car. Stock up on food, water and dry goods.
- Keep a flashlight, spare batteries, candles and matches on hand.
- Keep a battery operated radio on hand to access weather and news updates.
- Check on neighbours who may require assistance.
- Clear the drainage basins / storm drains of snow, ice and other debris.
Report power outages and stay clear of downed lines. BC Hydro 1-888-POWERON or visit www.bchydro.com/outages.
Visit the North Shore Emergency Management website or call 604-983-9440 for more about personal emergency preparedness.
Emergency Services
If you require emergency services, please call 9-1-1 for police, fire and ambulance assistance. You can also visit the following pages for specific emergency information:
Contact Info
Thank you for your cooperation and patience during a snow event as municipal crews work to keep your streets clear and safe. For more information on the City's snow and ice removal policy and how you can prepare for winter storms, please contact the City at:
City of North Vancouver
141 West 14th Street
Tel: 604-983-7333
Email: eng@cnv.org