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1. Who is responsible for clearing sidewalks?

Under the City’s Boulevard Maintenance Bylaw (PDF), it is the responsibility of the property owner to clear snow and ice from all sidewalks bordering their property. 

After a snowfall, residents must clear their sidewalks within 10 hours. Remember to shovel the snow to the back of your driveway. If you shovel onto the street, the plow will push the snow back onto your driveway and sidewalk.

To report an area where someone has not cleared their sidewalk, please use the Snow Response Request Tool.

2. Is there a “right” way to shovel the driveway?

Yes there sure is! 

When shoveling snow to clear your driveway, do not shovel snow onto the street. Shovel 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 pushed back onto your driveway from the snow plow.

3. I’m a senior or have a disability and am unable to clear my sidewalk or driveway. What can I do?

The City does not clear driveways or sidewalks but we do manage a Snow Angels program where we connect people who are unable to clear snow with volunteers in their area who are willing to help out. 

You can learn more about this program on our Snow Angels page, email Snow Angels or call 604-927-6909. Please plan ahead and ensure these arrangements have been made.

4. Do I have to clear all of the sidewalk?

You must clear the sidewalk so that there is a walkable path wide enough to accommodate a stroller or a wheelchair. 

Please ensure that you clear the snow towards your property (not onto the roadway side of the sidewalk) in order to allow a place for the snow plow to pile snow on the road side of the sidewalk, and in order to ensure that the plow does not push the snow back onto your sidewalk. If this does happen, you will be responsible for clearing your sidewalk again.

5. Who is responsible for clearing walkways such as the Mariner overpass?

The City is responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to City-owned properties, including the Mariner overpass and recreation facilities. 

Sidewalks or overpasses that are private property are the responsibility of those property owners (such as the Pinetree Way overpass, which is the responsibility of School District 43).

6. Why hasn’t the sidewalk in front of the school been cleared?

It is the responsibility of School District 43 to clear sidewalks adjacent to schools. If you’d like to report an area of concern, use the Snow Response Request Tool.