Snow Removal

The City recently amended its Snow and Ice Response Plan. The most significant change to the plan is that all snow removal efforts in the City will now fall under a single unified structure. Priority routes remain the same and include:

Primary Snow Routes

Keeping major transportation routes clear
Clearing transit routes, hospital and school zones, as well as city facilities

Secondary Snow Routes

Commercial and residential areas

It is essential that the City have a plan in place that coordinates the most effective and efficient method of deploying the City’s resources. Please note that secondary priority routes will be addressed once the first priority routes are under control. Lanes will only be cleared in response to a medical emergency or other special circumstance.

Snow Removal Maps:

Map of East Map of Midtown Map of West

Clearing Sidewalks

Property owners and occupiers in New Westminster are reminded that the City’s Street and Traffic Bylaw No. 6027, 1991 requires snow and ice to be removed from sidewalks abutting their property by no later than 10:00 am of the day following a snowfall event.

When clearing snow and ice from sidewalks, please do not shovel onto the street. Sidewalks should be clear of snow and ice the full length and width and down to bare concrete. Suitable de-icing products are available for purchase at local retailers.

Please do not use table, rock salt, or a sodium based product as it will damage the surface of the sidewalk.

Seniors who are unable to clear their sidewalks due to physical limitations or health issues, and who have not been successful in acquiring help from neighbours, family or friends, may wish to contact the Seniors Services Society Mon-Fri 8:30am - 4:30pm 604-520-6621 . If this is after hours please leave message and they will get back to you the next business day.

Clearing Catch Basins / Drainage Grates

To avoid flooding risk, the City requests your assistance in keeping drainage grates on city roads clear of leaves, snow, and other debris. If the drain still appears to be plugged after you have removed any surface debris, please contact Engineering Operations at 604-526-4691 and a crew will be sent to inspect the chamber. Please note it is normal to have some standing water in the chamber.

The City is actively cleaning catch basins and is making every effort to keep up with the blockages on a timely basis. We appreciate your patience and assistance in clearing surface debris where possible.

Garbage and Recycling Collection Services During Snow Events

Residential Garbage and Recycling services may be disrupted or even temporarily suspended in the event of snow and/or extreme icing conditions. Areas that may be affected include the city as a whole or may be limited to specific areas that pose difficulties for our trucks. The City will make every effort to keep residents informed by updating our website as well as Citypage, and keep service disruptions to a minimum. Thank you for your patience and understanding during these times.

City Facility Operations

City facilities, including City Hall, Recreation Facilities, Community Centres, and the Public Library endeavour to maintain operations under all weather conditions. During periods of heavy snow fall, recreation facilities and the library may restrict operating hours and levels of public service. Opening and closing decisions are made on a site-by-site basis. Please contact the specific facility for daily schedule information. City Services Directory