Significant Weather Event – What You Need to Know

What Happens During a Significant Weather Event?

  • Extended Snow Clearing Timelines – Roads, sidewalks, bike lanes, and windrows will take longer to clear.

  • Main Roads Prioritized First – Major roads and highways are cleared before local streets and laneways.

  • Limited Windrow Clearing – Due to the volume of snow, it may take several hours for windrows to be cleared as crews prioritize clearing roads and main routes. The amount of snow accumulation also means that plows wait until the second or third pass to clear windrows. This allows crews to complete road plowing more quickly. 

  • No Parking on Snow Routes – Vehicles parked on designated snow routes may be ticketed or towed to allow plows to pass.

  • Increased Road Hazards – Residents should drive with caution, avoid unnecessary trips, and prepare for icy conditions.

  • Pause on 311 - During the first round of clean up operations, 311 only takes service requests related to urgent situations, to allow crews enough time to get through the round. Typically after the first round of operations, 311 will open for service requests. However, under the declaration and due to the scale of the operations, this timeframe may be longer. It may take up to 24 hours before 311 will open for service requests.

  • In an emergency - Call 911

Common Snow Concerns & What You Can Do:

✔ Blocked Driveways (Windrows)

  • Snow pushed to the side during plowing may block driveways. The City offers limited windrow clearing services in certain areas.

✔ Sidewalks Not Cleared

  • If sidewalks remain uncleared past 24 hours, you can report it to 311.

  • More on sidewalk clearing rules: Sidewalk Snow Clearing

✔ No Parking on Snow Routes

  • Parking is restricted on designated snow routes to allow plows to work efficiently. Vehicles parked on snow routes during major snow events may be ticketed or towed.

  • Check snow route restrictions: Major Snow Event Parking Rules

Snow Clearing in Toronto - How it works?

The City of Toronto has a tiered snow clearing system to ensure roads and sidewalks are safe and accessible. The process is based on snowfall accumulation and priority routes:

  • Main Roads & Highways – Plowing begins when 2.5 cm of snow has accumulated.

  • Local Streets – Plowing begins when 5 cm of snow has fallen.

  • Sidewalks – Cleared automatically in most areas when snow reaches 2 cm. In some areas, property owners are responsible for clearing adjacent sidewalks.

  • Bike Lanes & Trails – Plowing begins at 2 cm accumulation, but response times vary based on conditions.

Snow plows operate on a priority system, meaning major roads are cleared first, followed by local streets and laneways.

Track real-time plowing updates using the PlowTO map


Why is Your Street Still Covered in Snow?

Waiting times for snow clearing vary depending on storm severity, total snowfall, and road priority:

  • Main roads are usually cleared within 6-8 hours after snowfall ends.

  • Local streets and laneways may take 14-16 hours to be fully plowed.

  • Sidewalks and bike lanes should be cleared within 24 hours, but conditions may delay service.

When to Call 311?

It can take up to 16 hours for a round of plowing to be completed. If your street hasn’t been plowed within 24 hours , report it to 311.

Call 311 or submit a service request online: 311 Toronto

Stay Safe & Be Prepared:

Wear proper footwear with good traction to avoid slips.
Reduce driving speed and keep a safe distance from snowplows.
Keep salt or sand handy to prevent icy walkways.
Check the weather before heading out.

Stay Updated:
Follow Toronto’s real-time snow updates: City of Toronto Winter Operations

If you have concerns or need help, 311 is available 24/7.