Snowplow/Shoveling Information

Plowing

Snow removal will begin at the discretion of the mayor or Public Works Department when these four criteria are met:

1. Snow accumulation of 1 inch or more;
2. Drifting of snow that causes problems for travel;
3. Icy conditions which seriously affect travel; and
4. Time of snowfall in relationship to heavy use of streets.

Highway 10 and 210 are not plowed by the City. These roads are maintained by the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

There are some streets within City limits that are not owned and maintained by the City. These are private streets that are the responsibility of the property owner's, and therefore are not plowed by City employees.

Shoveling tips

We know it can be frustrating when plows push snow into driveways, sidewalks, fire hydrants and mailboxes. Here are some tips to help:

• If you have a driveway, please park in the driveway and leave the road clear for plowing.
• If on-street parking is your only option, try to change where you park throughout the week.
• Refrain from shoveling or blowing snow into the streets and instead shovel the snow into your yard. Snow blown into the street often is pushed back into driveways the next time the snow plows pass
• Shovel an area of 10 feet to the left of your driveway (the direction traffic is coming from). This will give the snow somewhere to go before the plow reaches your driveway, and it may reduce the possibility of having to re-shovel. Please note, when there is an abundance of snow accumulation you will still get some snow in your driveway. This is just to reduce the amount you will need to shovel or snow blow later.

Sidewalks

Shoveled sidewalks ensure you and your neighbors are able to use them. When sidewalks remain clear in the winter, residents who do not drive can walk to the bus or get to work, school or their favorite businesses. Our residents – including seniors, children and persons with disabilities – remain safe when our sidewalks are clear of snow and ice.

The City ordinance for sidewalk snow removal says:

• The clearing of ice and snow on sidewalks is the responsibility of the property owner
• Within 24 hours after the end of a snowfall, the full width of the sidewalk needs to be cleared down to the concrete
• Sidewalks not cleared of snow and ice after notification from the City may be cleared by a City contractor at the property owner’s expense