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're responsible for clearing snow and 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 (Bylaw 6234 C - 814).
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.
Avoid parking on the street to allow snow plows and salt trucks the room required to safely clear streets. This is particularly important on cul-de-sacs and narrow roadways.
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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- 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 and Multi-Use Pathways
Municipal crews salt and clear trails and multi-use pathways in order of priority as follows:
- 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.
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 can't 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 To Prepare For 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 While It's Snowing
- 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're 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 this occurs, notifications will be posted on the CityCollect App downloadable at cnv.org/CityCollect, on the City’s social media channels and at cnv.org/GarbageCollection. 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: contact school directly
Winter Storm Safety Tips
When winter weather arrives, everyone should be prepared and know what to do in extreme weather conditions. Learn more on our Extreme Cold webpage.