Blocking snow plows could cost you up to $500 this winter in Brampton

We may still be a month away from the official start of winter, but with snow in the forecast this week the city is reminding residents not to block plows or risk hefty fines up to $500.

While some areas of southern Ontario could see up to 50 centimetres of snow by the week’s end, the snowfall is expected to be much lighter in Brampton with Environment and Climate Change Canada calling for a chance of flurries everyday this week.

Brampton’s de-icing operations have already begun with trucks working routes earlier this week, but the city is reminding residents not to interfere with snow plows that will soon be out the winter season.

City crews begin plowing when snow reaches 5 cm, with a priority on major roadways “for maximum road safety before addressing local streets.”

And with more than 4,1oo kilometres of roads, 1,4oo kilometres of city sidewalks and 224 kilometres of trails in Brampton that get serviced every year, the city wants drivers to be aware that blocking streets with vehicles “to prevent service delays.”

The city bans street parking during winter weather events to ensure that plows, salters and emergency vehicles have safe passage, and bylaws can lead to fines for residents.

Vehicle owners can be fined $125 for interfering with snow removal or winter maintenance, jumping up to $250 for a second offence and doubling again to $500 for every following infraction.

“We urge residents to prepare for winter weather and stay informed about our operations,” said Shane Loftus, director of road maintenance, operations and fleet, with the city.

The city has made a snow clearing assistance fund available to renters in Brampton who need extra help clearing snow from their property.

In previous years the program was only open to seniors and people with disabilities to help offset the costs of hiring someone to remove snow from sidewalks and driveways. The program was expanded last year to include people who rent homes with grants of up to $300, or up to $400 for corner lot properties.

Brampton also has a real-time snow plow tracking map that residents can check but before we get to that here is how you can help during snow falls.

Here are some tips to make sure you avoid any fines and allow workers to safely clear sidewalks and roads:

• Clear sidewalks of snow and ice by 11 am the day after a snowfall.
• Keep fire hydrants on your property free from snow to maintain emergency access.
• Do not shovel snow onto the roadway, as this creates a safety risk for vehicles and can block catch basins, increasing flooding potential. This is considered fouling the highway (dumping) and is contrary to the Highway Traffic Act.
• Do not park on the street until it has been salted or plowed. Parking considerations are suspended during snow events, and any previously issued permits are invalid to ensure snow-clearing crews have full access and to prevent service delays.

For more information on the city’s snow clearing operations or to view the snow plow tracker visit www.Brampton.ca.