Snow is in the forecast – let’s work together to keep roads, sidewalks, and hydrants clear

Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting snow for the entire south coast region January 16 and 17, 2024. Let’s work together to make sure we’re winter ready in Port Moody! 

City response priorities 

The City has a winter road maintenance plan in place based on the procedures and priorities outlined in our Winter Road Maintenance Policy:

• By the time the first flakes fall, our team is already out on Port Moody’s roads and pathways. When low temperatures or snow are in the forecast, we start by taking proactive measures such as applying anti-icing materials to roads and pedestrian areas. 

• Once the snow starts, we clear and maintain roads based on a priority system that classifies roads as Priority 1, 2, or 3. We work around the clock to ensure access on Priority 1 and 2 routes, and prioritize continued clearing based on the same system. Not sure about your road’s priority? View a map of our snow response priorities for roads. 

• While sidewalks adjacent to private property are the responsibility of residents, strata corporations, and business owners, the City is responsible for the locations shown on our map of snow response priorities for pedestrian areas. We have a two-level priority system, with pedestrian areas within 800 metres of the Inlet Centre and Moody Centre SkyTrain stations classified as Priority 1.

Solid waste collection during snow events 

Collection of garbage, green waste, recycling, and glass may be delayed or cancelled during extreme weather events. If collection is affected, we will notify residents via our website (portmoody.ca), social media channels, and our PoMobile solid waste app (available at Google Play and the Apple app store). 

Responsibilities of property, strata, and business owners 

Before the snow starts to fall, please make sure you are aware of your responsibilities as a property/business owner or strata manager:

• Under the Sidewalk and Boulevard Bylaw Maintenance Bylaw, residents, strata corporations, and business owners are required to clear sidewalks adjacent to their property by 10am for a Priority Pedestrian Route, or within 24 hours for other routes. Please have your shovels – or your contractor’s shovels - ready, and make arrangements with your neighbours if needed, as fines for violating the bylaw start at $100.
• Also under the Sidewalk and Boulevard Bylaw Maintenance Bylaw, residents, strata corporations, and business owners are required to clear snow from fire hydrants to ensure emergency access. Fines for violating the bylaw start at $100.
• When clearing sidewalks and parking lots, include curb letdowns, ramps used as alternatives to stairs, and accessible parking spots – your neighbours with accessibility needs or wheeled accessories such as strollers will thank you.

Parking during snow events 

Snowplows need room to pass safely and efficiently on all streets. Please remember:

• As parked or abandoned cars can prevent the safe passage of plows and affect the progress of city-wide maintenance efforts during winter conditions, we ask all residents to avoid parking on the street whenever possible during snowfall events.
• Seasonal parking restrictions will be in effect in a few areas where it is especially difficult for snowplows to pass next to parked cars. Find more information and maps at portmoody.ca/snowandice. 

Snow Stars 

If someone helps you out this winter, let us know! We have a special recognition program for Snow Stars who go above and beyond in keeping roads and sidewalks clear. Take a moment to show your gratitude for a good neighbour by filling out our nomination form online at portmoody.ca/snowstars. 

Find all the information you need to be winter ready at portmoody.ca/snowandice and portmoody.ca/weather.