During a storm, it can seem as though the plow visits every street but yours. In most cities, though, the order is not random. Public works departments follow a plan that ranks streets by importance, and understanding that plan helps you choose where to park when snow is on the way.
How streets are usually ranked
Many cities divide their streets into priority tiers. The exact categories differ, but a common pattern looks like this:
- First priority. Major arterials, emergency routes and roads leading to hospitals, fire stations and police stations.
- Second priority. Bus routes, collector streets that connect neighborhoods to main roads, and streets near schools.
- Third priority. Residential side streets, cul-de-sacs and dead ends.
- Special areas. Steep hills, bridges and known trouble spots may get early treatment with salt or sand.
In a long storm, crews may make repeated passes on high-priority roads before ever reaching side streets. That is why your quiet block may stay snowy for a while even as main roads look clear.
What this means for parking
High-priority streets are often the ones designated as snow routes, with parking banned during declared emergencies. Cars left there may be ticketed or towed so plows can clear the full width. Side streets may allow parking during storms, but they will be plowed later, and the plow will push a ridge of snow against parked cars.
Some practical takeaways:
- Learn whether your street is a posted snow route. Look for signs on the block and check your city’s official snow map.
- When a storm is forecast, move your car off snow routes early, before a declaration catches you late at night.
- Expect to dig through a plow ridge on residential streets once crews arrive.
- If your city offers off-street parking for residents during emergencies, find the nearest location ahead of time.
Why parked cars slow everyone down
A plow cannot safely clear close to parked cars, so a block lined with vehicles ends up with narrow lanes and packed snow along the curb. That snow can freeze and stay for weeks, shrinking both the travel lanes and the parking supply. Cities that run odd and even side rules or temporary bans are trying to get at least one full pass along the curb.
Tracking the plows
Some cities offer online maps that show where plows have been or which streets have been treated. Others post updates on social media or send alerts. If your city has a 311 service or a public works contact line, it may also take reports of missed streets once a storm ends.
Every city handles snow differently, and plans can change with the severity of a storm. Check your city’s official website for its snow plan and parking rules, and always follow posted signs on your block.
Planning Your Parking Around the Plow Schedule
Knowing that streets are plowed in a particular order gives you a real advantage. Instead of guessing, you can make choices that keep your car legal, accessible and easier to dig out.
Before winter
- Find your city’s snow map. Look up which nearby streets are primary routes, secondary routes and residential streets.
- Identify your best storm spot. A space on a residential street that is not a snow route, close to home and on level ground, is often a good choice. An off-street space is even better.
- Know the plow’s direction. On many streets, plows push snow toward the curb on the right side of their travel direction. Watching a storm or two on your block teaches you which side tends to get the bigger ridge.
- Sign up for alerts. Make sure you will know when a declaration is coming and when it is lifted.
When a storm is forecast
- Move off snow routes early, ideally before the snow begins.
- Park with a little extra space in front and behind, so you can dig out without being boxed in.
- Bring your shovel and brush inside so they are ready when the storm ends.
- If you have a choice, avoid parking right at a corner, where plows may leave extra snow as they turn.
After the storm
Wait until the plow has passed your street before shoveling the ridge in front of your car. If you dig out first, the plow may refill the space. Check your city’s guidance on when residential streets are expected to be plowed, and watch for any follow-up crews clearing snow piles.
Common Mistakes When Plows Are Out
- Parking on the main road because it looks clear. A freshly plowed snow route can be tempting, but parking there during a ban may lead to a ticket or tow.
- Shoveling snow back into the street. It can refreeze into ridges that make plowing and driving harder. Many cities discourage or prohibit it.
- Following plows too closely. Plows stop, back up and spread salt or sand. Give them plenty of room when you drive.
- Leaving trash cans or space savers in the street. Objects at the curb can slow plows or be pushed into parked cars.
- Calling about a missed street too soon. During the storm, crews are focused on priority routes. Many cities ask residents to wait until the storm ends before reporting missed residential streets.
What this means for you
If you live on a main road, you will likely see plows often but have to move your car during emergencies. Plan your backup location well ahead.
If you live on a side street, you can usually park during storms, but you may wait longer for plowing. Expect to dig out, and give yourself extra time the morning after.
If you live on a hill or dead end, conditions may vary. Some cities treat hills early, while dead ends can be harder for plows to reach. Patience and good footwear help.
Plow Questions Residents Ask
Why does the plow leave a ridge in front of my driveway?
Plows push snow to the side of the road, and driveways are along that path. Many cities consider clearing the ridge at a driveway to be the resident’s responsibility.
Why was my street plowed but not salted?
Treatment decisions depend on the city’s plan, road conditions and materials. Some cities prioritize salting on main roads, hills and intersections.
Can I request that my street be added to a higher priority?
Priorities are set by the city’s snow plan. Your public works department or city council office can explain how decisions are made.
