Snow & Ice
Snow & Ice Response Program
The Snow and Ice Response Program is designed to provide the best use of limited resources to maximize the movement of traffic within our community during winter weather. During storm events, we focus on clearing major arterial and collector streets first, then begin responding to residential connector streets, school zones, transit routes, and steep residential streets as resources become available. The plow routes are adjustable depending on accumulations of snow and ice, time of day, and flow of traffic.
Snow & Ice Control Policy
The City of Owatonna Snow & Ice Control Policy can be viewed here.
Snow Removal
Snow and ice can be dangerous for all ages, but especially for children, the elderly and persons with disabilities who are more susceptible to injury. For example, when sidewalks are not cleared of snow and ice, children will often weave in and out of streets and sidewalks on their way to or from school or to and from the bus, which is a safety concern.
Questions
We thank you for doing your part to provide safe sidewalks for our citizens. Contact the City of Owatonna Public Works Department with any questions at 507-444-4350.
Emergencies
Emergencies such as downed trees, power lines, etc. should be direct to 911 and 507-456-3093.
- When are streets plowed?
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According to the City of Owatonna’s Snow and Ice Control Policies and Procedures City crews begin snow and ice control operations when two inches of snow accumulate, when drifting snow causes problems for travelling, when icy conditions affect travel or when road conditions could deteriorate due to peak traffic volumes. Full mainline and cul-de-sac plowing operations begin at various times, depending on the start time and duration of the storm event. Routes and operations are designed to maintain access of emergency vehicles to all areas as a first priority. The plowing of high volume roadways generally occurs first, followed by residential plowing. In general, city roadways are cleared of snow within 8 to 12 hours of the end of the storm events. These guidelines are used to remove snow from streets throughout the city including in the downtown area.
- Why is the winter parking ordinance enforced nightly, regardless of the weather?
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Odd/Even parking enforcement is not contingent on an impending snowstorm or a snow event. It is the objective of the City of Owatonna to educate community members and seek voluntary compliance, followed by consistent enforcement. This allows for a significantly more effective and efficient street maintenance operation.
- How do I report mailbox damage?
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You may request an investigation of mailbox damage with the Public Works Department by contacting 507.444.4350 or Report a Concern online. Find more information regarding mailbox damage issues here.
- Is there a map showing which side of the street I can park on?
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Use the Owatonna Winter Parking Map App to see where to park where parking is allowed and areas that are exempt from the winter parking restriction. Easily search an address to determine the odd and even sides. Please review the initial screen for pertinent information that explains how to interpret and understand the winter parking restriction. A green line indicates the side that is even. A red line indicates the side that is odd. A black line indicates this area is exempt from the winter parking ordinance due to restrictions. A yellow line will appear during 12:01 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. (noon) to indicate the side of the street you should park on if the area is not restricted.
- Where can questions or concerns be directed regarding snow removal?
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Please email publicworks@owatonna.gov or call 507.444.4350.