Snow & Ice Removal
The Village of Radium Hot Springs maintains roads and sidewalks throughout the winter season with the goal of keeping them as safe as possible for pedestrians, vehicles, and emergency responders. Staff is prepared to respond to snow events seven days a week during the snow season, mid-October to mid-March.
Each storm brings its own challenges. Please drive to conditions, use appropriate winter tires and footwear, and allow extra travel time during and after winter weather events. Staff works hard to clear the Village as efficiently as possible and your patience as crews work through the community is appreciated.
Click here to view the full Snow and Ice Control Policy on the Document Centre.
Driveways
As a part of snow removal, some snow is typically deposited in front of driveways as a windrow. This accumulation at driveway entrances is unavoidable and clearing driveway opening windrows s the responsibility of the property owner.
Your Responsibilities
- Do not shovel, plow, or blow snow onto Village roads or rights-of-way. This is prohibited by bylaw and can create traffic hazards. Pile snow from driveways, parking lots, and walkways on your own property.
- Keep road rights-of-way clear. These typically extend two to three metres from the edge of pavement and are needed for snow storage between storms.
- Clear snow and ice from sidewalks adjacent to your property within a reasonable time after snowfall.
- Remove vehicles from Village roads during snowfall events so plows can clear curb to curb. Vehicles left on the road may be bermed in or towed at the owner's expense.
Right-of-Way Obstructions
Public rights-of-way may extend one to two metres (or more) beyond the edge of pavement. If you are unsure of the boundary, look for reference points such as power poles, streetlights, and fire hydrants.
During the Winter Operations Season, a certain amount of damage to Village and private property may be incurred by snow clearing equipment. Upon receiving notice of property damage, the Public Works Department will investigate at its earliest availability to determine whether the damage was caused by Village equipment.
Landscaping and objects installed within the right-of-way, including rocks, fences, and planters, are placed at the property owner's risk.
Clearing Snow Around Fire Hydrants
If there is a fire hydrant near your home or business, please do not pile snow within one metre of it and keep it clear of snow and ice throughout the winter. When hydrants are buried, firefighters may need to stop to locate and dig them out while the fire continues to burn. A clear hydrant can save critical time and potentially save lives.
Clear a path from the road to the hydrant and at least one metre around it on all sides. Make sure it is visible from the road.
The following video, provided by the Grande Prairie Fire Department, demonstrates how keeping hydrants clear, may save a life: http://youtu.be/ylhYpAioO9Y.
Report a Concern
If you notice a road or sidewalk safety issue, a missed plowing area, or a right-of-way obstruction, let us know through the Report a Problem tool on the Village website or call the Village Office at 250-347-6455.
