For several years Coquitlam has experienced unprecedented snowfalls for extended periods of time. The City has reviewed its snow removal policies and service priorities to better meet the needs of our community in the face of these increased demands.
To get Winter Wise, the information on these pages will help you understand the City's responsibilities and priorities and learn more about what you can do to prepare so you enjoy a comfortable, safe winter season. General information on the following is just a click away:
In the case of a snow and ice event, click on the links to your right for the latest information on weather forecasts, City Facility updates, snow plow updates, garbage pickup schedules, school closure announcements, and much more.
Here is a list of our service improvements:
- Snow removal priorities to bus routes, public school sites, community care facilities and steep local roads.
- New and enhanced equipment to better access local roads and new priority areas.
- Expanded services with an emphasis on our most vulnerable populations.
- Enhanced parking restrictions to enahnce snow removal and increase safety for the travelling public on key roadways.
- Improved communication channels between City staff and other groups such as schools, businesses, the RCMP, community groups and volunteers have been established to ensure the most up-to-date information is available.
Snow Removal on Sidewalks
We are reminding everyone this winter that as a responsible neighbour and citizen, it is important to clear sidewalks so everyone, and in particular people with limited mobility such as the elderly and disabled, those who use motorized scooters, or parents with strollers, can safely get to their destination.
It is the responsibility of all owners or occupiers of property, including the City, to clear ice and snow from the sidewalks bordering the property within 10 hours of the cessation of any snowfall or ice storm. Please remember this is a continuing obligation, and that snow and ice must be re-cleared should it re-accumulate.
Snow-clearing Tip: When shovelling snow and clearing your driveway, do not shovel the snow onto the street. Pile the snow on the right side of your driveway as you face the road. In many cases this will reduce the amount of snow that gets oushed back onto your driveway from the snow plow.
Important Note - Fire and Rescue: During heavy snowfalls, fire hydrants can become snow covered. If you have a fire hydrant on your property, please help keep the hydrant clear of snow and other obstructions so the Fire Department has easy access in the event of an emergency.
Right now, before a storm arrives, check with others on your street to see if anyone who is elderly or has limited mobility issues may need help clearing their sidewalk.
Please give each other a hand.