Who do I contact for more information?

From within Vancouver, call: 3-1-1. From outside Vancouver, call: 604.873.7000

Why doesn't the City plow all the streets in Vancouver?

Experience has shown that with the types of typical winter storms we get in Vancouver, it is not productive to plow residential streets. We are usually in a thaw situation long before plowing of residential streets is completed.

Why don't you remove the snow that you plow?

We've tried this in the past (generally in the downtown area). However from our experience, Vancouver's winter storms change to rain before snow removal is necessary.

Why does the City use salt?

Salt is not as damaging to our road and sewer systems as sand. Vancouver has used salt for many years, and we have found it to be the most economical alternative.

When you plow, the blades don't take all the snow off the road. Why?

It's a safety issue. We set the plows 3/4 inch above the road surface to protect the drivers and the trucks. Our streets have numerous manhole lids in them. Hitting one of these with a plow blade, even at slow speeds, could cause serious injury.

Why are you only collecting garbage and not recycling and yard waste?

For health reasons, priority is given to garbage collection. Recycling and yard waste collection may be delayed due to conditions in lanes.

Why do you require snow to be cleared from sidewalks?

To keep our sidewalks clear for pedestrians. Snow and ice on the sidewalk can pose an insurmountable barrier for many citizens, particularly seniors and persons with disabilities. A single uncleared portion of a sidewalk can negate the clearing efforts of the rest of the residents on the full block.

Why do you require snow and ice to be cleared from my sidewalk by 10 am?

The intent is to have the sidewalk network clear the morning after the snow has stopped.

What are the penalties for not clearing ice and snow from your sidewalk?

In the rare cases where people are not willing to make any effort to meet the intent of the bylaw, the City has the option to issue a ticket ($250) or initiate a prosecution (fines up to $2000).

My personal situation/religious beliefs prevent me from clearing snow and ice on specific days.

For a person who is unable to clear their sidewalk for any reason, including religious beliefs, we encourage that person to make alternate arrangements through neighbours, friends or other means. We are also encouraging community associations, neighbourhood houses, youth groups, service organizations, and individuals to help their friends, neighbours and others in the community to clear sidewalks.