Get winter ready: tips and tools for the season in the City of Kitchener

Local roofs are capped in white, boots are lining every entryway, and plows are ready to clear city streets, which means winter has officially arrived in Kitchener! As we transition into the colder months, now is the time to start thinking about winter readiness and reminding ourselves of the support and tools available in our community to help us all have a safe and healthy winter season.

As the snow starts to fall, you can expect to see City plows on the streets. When there is significant snowfall, 8 cm or more in the forecast or accumulated, the City declares a snow event. Snow events prompt the city’s tag and tow process, which bans parking on city streets so snow clearing can take place. Snow events will be declared on the City’s website and social media platforms. To stay up to date on snow event declarations, subscribe to the City’s snow removal page for email notifications.

The City clears snow and ice from roads and sidewalks around city-owned facilities, walkways, and parks, but residents and property owners are responsible for clearing sidewalks around their properties within 24 hours of the end of a snowfall.

To make sure City plows have access to clear streets after a snowfall, overnight parking is not permitted between 2:30 a.m. and 6 a.m. from Dec. 1, 2023, to Mar. 31, 2024. When a snow event has been declared, the parking ban extends into the day, from the time the snow event is declared to the time it either expires or is cancelled by the City.

Remember to use caution when travelling during the winter; it will help keep everyone safe. Be aware of the road conditions and forecast before leaving, and consider staying home when possible, during snow events. The City’s snow plow priorities map shows the order in which roads are cleared, and the getting around map is activated during a snow event to show which roads have been cleared to help you plan your trip. Above all, connecting with your community and keeping an eye out for one another will help ensure everyone has a happy and healthy winter season. Be aware of those around you, and if you see a neighbour struggling, offer to help!

As we prepare for the winter season, visit www.kitchener.ca/snow for more information on winter readiness and the tools available to help you plan for a safe winter season.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Shawn Falcao
Manager, Corporate Communications
City of Kitchener
shawn.falcao@kitchener.ca