Snow Removal Reminders

Ready or not, the first snow fall of this winter season is forecasted to begin later this evening into tomorrow. The City of Owatonna would like to remind property owners and residents of some best practice tips and ordinances to help facilitate efficient snow removal operations. 

Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we enter the winter season!

Snow Removal Reminders

• Plowing operations begin in the event of icy conditions and/or the accumulation reaches 2 or more inches. 
• Comply with odd-even parking restrictions and utilize off-street parking when available.
• Keep trash and recycling containers well behind the curb or in the driveway during snow plowing activities and remove the containers from the street as soon as practical.
• If possible, wait until your street has been cleared before cleaning the end of your driveway. City plows are designed to discharge snow to the sides of the road and are not capable of skipping driveway areas.
• Shovel snow from the end of the driveway to the right as you're facing the street. This reduces the amount of snow being placed back into the driveway during the next plowing.
• Remove snow from sidewalks within 24 hours of the last accumulation.

Don't Crowd the Plow

Motorists should use caution and to stay back at least 200 feet when nearing a snowplow. Maintaining proper distance will help keep both drivers safe.

Sidewalk 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, pedestrians will often weave in and out of streets and sidewalks which is a major safety concern. 

According to City Ordinance 94.005, property owners, occupant or person in the City of Owatonna are responsible for removing snow and ice from sidewalks surrounding their property. Any accumulated snow and ice must be removed from all city sidewalks within 24 hours from the time the snow ceases to accumulate. The entire width of the sidewalks must be cleared of snow and ice.

Sidewalk snow removal inspections are done on a compliant received basis. Those found to be in non-compliance will receive notice via US mail and a door hanger placed on the front door. Failure to bring the property into compliance within 3 days of notice will be subject to removal by the city's contractor and all costs plus and administrative fee billed to the property owner. 

Property Damage

City staff will repair turf damage within the right-of-way which was caused by city snow removal operations. Turf will be replaced as soon as season allows. The City is not responsible for damage to items placed in the right of way. Items include landscaping, sprinkler systems, etc.

Mailbox Damage

If a mailbox is physically contacted and damaged by a plow the owner has two options for repair or replacement. Only mailboxes which are physically contacted by the plow are eligible. 

All complaints are to be directed to the Public Works Department Administrative Office at 507.444.4350. Complaints may also be submitted online using this form by visiting Report a Concern.

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 adjusted depending on accumulations of snow and ice, time of day, and flow of traffic. 

Snow & Ice Control Policies and Procedures (PDF)