We don’t get snow often in Pitt Meadows, but when we do, it can be inconvenient and hazardous. Working together, both the City and residents can help keep our community clear of snow and ice, so everyone can get around safely.
The City’s Operations department maintains approximately 114km of asphalt roadways, and snow is cleared from these roadways based on a priority system:
- The City plows snow and treats ice with salt—and sometimes sand—on main routes only, around the clock, until they are consistently clear.
- After emergency routes are clear, residential and side streets are cleared.
- Depending on conditions and requirements to keep main routes open, it may be several days before side streets and residential roads are cleared.
- Cul-de-sacs are challenging for the large trucks and their blades to navigate, and therefore may not be plowed.
All levels of service are contingent on available resources including, but not limited to, availability of equipment, staffing, supplies and budget.
City bylaws require all residential and business occupants to clear the public sidewalks on their properties as soon as possible after a snowfall, and by no later than 10:00 a.m.
Safety and Preparedness Tips:
- If you see a snow event in the forecast, please plan ahead.
- Collect household supplies in advance (i.e. groceries, fuel, mail, etc.).
- Rescheduling your personal appointments.
- Rearrange your commute to and from work (if you have this option available to your by your employer).
- Learn more about emergency preparedness.
City Parks and Facilities Snow and Ice Policy C096 City Sidewalks and Snow Policy C097
Boulevard Maintenance Bylaw No. 2377 Road Network Snow & Ice Policy No. C020
Snow Clearing
Snow clearing does not remove snow—it pushes/moves snow away from the driving lanes of the road to make travel easier and safer.
Below are some tips for dealing with snow buildup on your sidewalk or roadway:
- Park in your driveway rather than on the street to make way for snow plow equipment. If cars are parked on the roadway, the plow may have to skip your street.
- When shovelling snow, pile it onto your lawn instead of on the road or sidewalk.
- Do not pile snow around fire hydrants. Blocking hydrants can cause serious delays when they are critically needed.
- Place garbage containers in cleared areas—not on snow piles. Missed a pickup? Learn more.
- Clear snow and ice away from catch basins. This allows water from melting snow and ice to flow freely into storm sewers.
- City crews work to clear catch basins when possible—if we work together, snow and ice can be cleared faster.
Be a Good Neighbour
Be a 'Snow Angel' during a snow event. Being a Snow Angel means supporting your neighbours who need help with snow and ice removal.