During winter, snow will fall and travel will become more challenging. The dedicated men and women of our Public Works Department will be out in force keeping our roadways as clean and safe as possible. We would like to remind everyone to use extreme caution around the plow trucks and to utilize the information below. Our Public Works Department has an excellent safety record, and you can help us continue to provide safe and effective snow removal by following these tips. If you have questions or concerns, please contact the Public Works Department at (801) 782-8111.
Safety Tips and Guidelines
Please make sure you are at a safe distance when pulling out in front of a plow truck – Our trucks can weigh in excess of 10 tons and require a longer than normal stopping distance on slick pavement.
Snow plows tend to travel at a lower rate of speed than other vehicles, so be sure slow down if you see one in front of you. The person operating the snow plow may also need to stop more frequently than other drivers to make sure that the lights on it are free from snow and ice. Do turn your lights on so that the snow plow operator can see you. You should have your headlights on even during daylight hours when it is snowing.
When following a plow, allow plenty of stopping distance – Plow trucks make frequent stops and back up with little warning. Remember, if you cannot see a plow truck’s side view mirrors, the driver cannot see you.
Remain at a safe distance from rock salt – rock salt is our main defense against the slick pavement and our plows are capable of spreading this salt in a 20-foot pattern behind and to the sides of the vehicle. We do use shielding to deflect this pattern, but occasionally rock salt can damage nearby vehicles or come in contact with pedestrians.
If you are attempting to pass a snowplow, DO NOT pass on the right-hand side. When the snow plow is being operated, the snow and any debris the blade picks up will be deposited on the right side. When a snow plow is being driven, it can create a snow cloud behind it. Drivers should avoid following the snow plow too closely since the cloud of snow can interfere with visibility.
When Is Parking on Streets Not Allowed?
From November 15th through March 15th of each year there is no parking on the streets from midnight to 6:00 a.m. There is no parking on the streets and roadways anytime during a snowstorm or within 24-hours following the cessation of a storm. Cars, trucks, trailers or other vehicles parking on the streets or roadways against these rules are considered a public nuisance and may be towed at the registered owner’s expense.
Why Does My Driveway Get Plowed In?
The snowplows are designed to direct snow to the curbside of the plow blade. These side-delivery plows are the fastest and most efficient means available to remove snowfall from the streets. As a result, snow is discharged along the length of the curb, the parkways, and the private driveway areas. There are thousands of private driveways city-wide, and cleaning these off is the responsibility of the owner. To ensure that both the streets and your driveway are cleared efficiently, please follow these guidelines: Pile your snow to the right side of the driveway – This will help alleviate the amount of snow that is piled at the end of your driveway after plows pass through. Wait till your street has been plowed before clearing your own driveway – This will prevent your own snow piles from being piled back onto your driveway. Don’t discharge your snow into the streets – City Ordinance prohibits this. Snow may freeze or become compacted, creating a safety hazard for all motorists. Homeowners may be held liable for damages caused by this road hazard or may be fined for causing the hazard.