Snow Removal

City Snow Plowing Policy

The City of South St. Paul is responsible for plowing all publicly owned and maintained streets and alleys. Typically, the city plows for snowfalls of two inches or more. For snowfalls under two inches or during icy conditions, the city treats hills and main streets with plowing, salting, and sanding as needed.

If several light snowfalls occur in succession or if warmer weather loosens packed snow, the city may plow once accumulation reaches a point that justifies full clearance.

Maintenance Crew Schedule

When snow falls during the day, maintenance crews begin their plowing routes immediately and typically continue until about 6:00 p.m. If necessary, they resume plowing at 2:00 a.m. the next morning. If snow begins overnight, crews usually start between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m.

Plowing Zones and Priorities

The city is divided into six plowing zones, with two trucks generally assigned to each zone. Plowing follows this priority order:

  • Priority 1: Main streets and hills
  • Priority 2: Local streets, Wakota Arena, and City Hall parking lot
  • Priority 3: Alleys and trails
  • Priority 4: Sidewalks, steps, rinks, pump houses, and park parking lots (as needed)

Clearing all streets and alleys can take up to two days. Residents are encouraged to assist by moving vehicles off unplowed streets and alleys. Avoid parking in “snowbird” zones or pushing snow into public roadways.

City Ordinances Related to Snow Removal

The City reminds residents of two important ordinances that help ensure effective and safe snow removal:

  • Municipal Code §58-101(a): "Except when otherwise posted, marked, or metered, a vehicle may not be parked on the streets or alleys in such a manner as to obstruct or interfere with snow plowing or snow removal." All vehicles must be removed from streets before plows begin.
  • Municipal Code §58-98: "A vehicle may not be upon any street in any one place for a longer continuous period than 20 hours." This encourages regular vehicle movement to assist with snow plowing and public access.

Snowbird Citations

Vehicles left unmoved during plowing efforts delay operations and may result in a "snowbird" citation issued by the Police Department. After plowing is complete, unmoved vehicles may be towed. Owners are responsible for tow and storage fees, which typically exceed $100.

Sidewalk Responsibilities

Under City Ordinance §54-4, snow, dirt, or rubbish left on a public sidewalk for more than 12 hours after deposition constitutes a public nuisance. If sidewalks remain uncleared, the City may issue a notice to the property owner. If not addressed within the set timeframe, the City will clear the sidewalk and bill the property owner for the service.