Snow and Ice Control

Snow Related FAQs

• Who is responsible for clearing snow off sidewalks?

  Residents and businesses are required to clear snow and ice, within 24 hours of a snow event as per City Bylaw 5000, Section 22 (1). City Staff maintain public access to City facilities by clearing sidewalks, parking lots, bridges, the Seawall and E&N trail. 

  Helpful tips!

  When out shovelling, please take a moment to clear any catch basins (drains) that are next to your property. Blocked catch basins could result in flooding of adjacent properties and the excess water could make the road area dangerous if the water freezes. Below is a helpful video on how to help us clear snow and catch basins.

  When the cold weather hits, many people make their way to warmer places. So, we encourage Nanaimo residents, occupants, tenants, and businesses to make arrangements to have your sidewalk and/or storefront cleared while away from home or work during the winter season.

  When out shovelling, please also consider lending a hand to your neighbour as there are some people in our community who may have difficulty clearing snow and ice and could use their neighbour’s help.

  We want to take this opportunity and thank you for doing your part in being a good neighbour. If you’re a business owner, we are confident that your customers also thank you for doing your part in clearing the sidewalks for them!

• When will my street be plowed?

  City crews begin by clearing priority 1 routes, then move to 2 and 3 priority routes. Once all priority routes are cleared, they then begin tackling non-priority routes. During times of continuous snowfall, crews return to clearing priority 1 routes as these routes are vital to travel in the City and are used by emergency services. 

  • Priority 1 routes: Emergency routes and all major routes
  • Priority 2 routes: Secondary roads
  • Priority 3 routes: Residential cul-de-sacs and dead ends

  Please note that it can take upwards of 96 hours for City crews to get into residential areas. If it snows again while crews are working on the secondary or residential routes, they must stop and return to plowing on priority 1 routes.

• I have a medical condition and frequent the hospital, can my street be a priority for snowplowing?

  During a snow event, the City focuses on clearing priority 1 routes, which are used by Police, Fire, Ambulance, BC Transit and other responders. The City also works closely with Emergency services to respond to medical situations during a snow event by clearing roads when necessary.

• Does the City tow abandoned vehicles during a snow event?

  Yes. This is to ensure routes are clear for emergency vehicles and vehicular traffic. To find out if your vehicle has been towed by the City, call the RCMP at 250-754-2345.

• What are some winter driving tips that I should be aware of?

  • Take extra caution whether you're driving, walking or cycling. Roads and sidewalks can be slippery during and after snowfall meaning everyone must do their part to use extra care when on their daily commutes.
    • For drivers, ICBC has some tips on driving in poor conditions.
    • For cyclists, check out these safe winter riding tips.
    • For pedestrians, Canada Safety Council has some handy tips to stay safe on your walk.
  • Plan ahead by checking the weather reports and following the City on Facebook or Twitter for winter road updates. 
  • Some extra tips for drivers:
    • Make sure to have proper winter tires on your car.
    • Check the radiator anti-freeze protection level and windshield washer levels on your car.
    • Make sure there is an ice scraper in your car.
    • Keeping door lock de-icer on hand.
    • Checking the condition of your car's window wiper blades.
    • Keep your gas tank full.
    • Allow more time for your vehicle to warm up.
    • Use caution when approaching traffic signals, crosswalks, and stop signs; watch for pedestrians and allow for extra time and distance when stopping.
    • Plan your route to avoid hills.
    • Stay well back from snow plows and salt trucks.