Snow Removal Rules for Driveways and Violations

It is prohibited at all times to dump snow in the streets or on sidewalks: in addition to exposing yourself to a fine, the snow may be pushed back into your driveway and make the road slippery.

The following actions are considered violations of the regulation:

• piling snow in a way that obstructs motorists' visibility, whether on private or public property;
• throwing snow within 1.5 meters of a fire hydrant;
• throwing snow on any public property or on the public road. Inform your snow removal contractor that they must not do this either.

Have you hired a snow remover for your driveway? Note that snow removal markers are allowed from October 16 to April 14.

Snow in Driveways

During snow removal, it is possible that City equipment deposits snow in front of your driveway and that snow is blown onto your property. It is your responsibility to remove the snow from your driveway to maintain access to your home.

Eligible seniors meeting certain criteria can benefit from a snow removal service, thanks to the Senior Assistance Program.

Snow blowing is favored as much as possible, in order to reduce the transport of snow by truck to the snow deposit. This practice has several advantages both for environmental protection and for the efficiency of snow removal:

• more efficient snow removal operations
• reduction of fuel and labor costs
• profitability of snow removers' working time
• reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
• reduction of noise for citizens

During snow removal operations, snow is pushed by equipment to the sides of the roads, and depending on the angle of the street or alley, piles may end up in front of your house. During the snow removal stage, this accumulation can be blown onto the property or transported to the snow deposit.

Snow Removal and Safety

Snow removal is a task that can be exhausting and pose a risk of injury. Adopt a good posture:

• Bend your knees rather than curving your back.
• Push the snow instead of lifting it, as much as possible.
• If you need to lift it, use your legs to exert the effort rather than your arms and back.

It is important to take breaks and dress warmly.

Don't forget to clear your emergency exits such as entrances, balconies, and windows. It is also essential to clear the snow in front of basement windows to prevent water infiltration during snowmelt.

Throughout the winter, it is important to monitor the accumulation of snow on your roof and balcony. Having too much snow can be dangerous, leading to a weight overload. Consider having your roof cleared if this is the case.

Keep Your Air Outlets and Gas Meters Clear

Is your residence gas-powered? After a storm, make sure your gas meter is cleared of snow and clear the exhaust vents of your furnace. In winter, snow and ice can block the air outlets of your residence and gas meters, which can pose safety risks.

It is also recommended to manually clear the ventilation and exhaust outlets of the water heater and dryer to avoid damaging them. Chimneys and vents must remain clear to prevent any accumulation of carbon monoxide inside. Regular maintenance helps prevent hazards and ensures a safe winter for everyone.