Property Owner Responsibilities

As a property owner in Spruce Grove, you also have responsibilities for snow removal. Please do your part to stay safe and keep things moving!

Sidewalks

The City's Traffic Bylaw   requires property owners to remove snow and ice from public sidewalks adjacent to their property within 48 hours of a snowfall. The City is responsible for clearing snow from public walkways that meet the criteria outlined in the Snow and Ice Control Policy. These walkways often include those adjacent to City-owned facilities, within city parks and open spaces, and along arterial roadways.

It's also a good idea to put down sand or gravel to help provide some traction or a product that will help melt the ice. This will not only make it easier for you to get around outside, but it will also help other residents safely use the sidewalk – especially the elderly, disabled or parents with strollers.

Additionally, please ensure sidewalks are kept free of any obstructions that could be a potential tripping hazard, such as toys or electrical cords.

Free sand is available to residents

Residents can help themselves to free sand, which is located in a bin at the Public Works building at 21 Century Close. Please bring your own bucket and self-serve. The bin will remain on-site for the remainder of the 2024-2025 winter season. This sand is for residential use only. 

Snow storage

Snow from your sidewalk, walkway, driveway or parking pad, cannot be shovelled or blown onto roadways, public property or into alleys. Not only is it against the City's Traffic Bylaw, but it can also lead to spring flooding and cause unnecessary windrows in the roadway due to drifting.

Give them room to work

When you see City crews and equipment out removing snow from City streets, be sure to give them plenty of room to work. This includes removing vehicles and other obstacles to allow for safe and efficient snow removal. Failure to remove vehicles and obstacles may cause delays and could result in property damage or fines. When encountering snow removal equipment on City streets, slow down and follow at a safe distance until there is a safe and legal opportunity to pass.

Waste collection

When putting out your black waste cart or green organics cart for collection, make sure to leave adequate space around them. Clear away snow to at least one metre (approximately an arm's length) around your carts.

Emergency access

Do you have a fire hydrant, utility box or transformer on or adjacent to your property? Be sure to keep snow cleared around hydrants to allow emergency access in the event of a fire. Utility boxes and transformers should also be cleared to allow utility companies access in the event of an emergency or to prevent damage by snow removal equipment.

Remove obstacles

If you store items outdoors during the winters months, such as hockey nets or basketball hoops, don't forget to remove them from roadways and boulevards before snow removal is scheduled in your area. Fewer obstacles will mean more efficient and effective snow removal for everyone.

Driveway aids (curb ramps)

Under the City’s Traffic Bylaw, driveway aids are permitted in Spruce grove, but must be removed during the winter months (November 1 to April 30). The seasonal removal of driveway aids will help ensure the snow removal service is effective and efficient. Read these FAQs for more information.