As winter weather picks up, here's a quick recap of snow-removal procedures and resident responsibilities to help everyone stay safe and in compliance.

Plowing & Snow Removal

The City's Public Works Division is responsible for clearing snow and ice from streets, alleys, municipal parking lots, and buildings - working from the start of snowfall until all city roadways are cleared.

As soon as snowfall begins, city-operated plow trucks will push snow out of the roadway. First priority goes to main arterial streets.

Once the storm ends and conditions improve, crews will return to widen all streets, moving accumulated snow to the curb lines and clearing intersections.

The city uses salt and/or brine to reduce icy conditions and speed snow melt.

Sidewalk Clearing

Clear sidewalks as early as possible after a snowstorm ends - icy sidewalks are not just a nuisance, they're a safety hazard. Property owners whose land abuts a public sidewalk are required to clear snow and ice from sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowstorm ends.

Failing to clear sidewalks may result in a civil infraction or even a minor-misdemeanor citation. Alternatively, the City may arrange for sidewalk clearing and bill the owner.

It is prohibited to shovel, plow or blow snow from driveways/sidewalks onto city streets - that can delay snow-plow operations and create unsafe street conditions.

Snow Streets & Snow Emergencies - Watch for Parking Restrictions

The City has designated certain roads as "Snow Streets" (marked with blue-and-white signs).

When a Snow Emergency is declared - typically after 2 inches or more of snow - any vehicle parked on a Snow Street must be removed within two hours (if declared between 7 a.m.-9 p.m.), or by 9:00 a.m. if declared overnight.

Failure to relocate vehicles promptly may result in towing at the owner's expense and/or citation.

Even if you don't live on a Snow Street - removing vehicles from the street when possible helps crews plow more efficiently and clear roads more quickly.

Thank you for doing your part to help keep Bowling Green safe and accessible this winter. Let's make it a smooth, clean, and efficient snow-clearing season - together.