The snow emergency has been lifted. Now what?

Does this mean all streets are cleared of snow?

No. The snow emergency is lifted once the snow emergency routes are cleared of snow. While other streets have seen some plowing, during the snow emergency the City focused on snow emergency routes. Now, the City will work to fully clear other streets over the coming days and during the regular street cleaning schedule.

Is the City done plowing?

No. Once the snow emergency is lifted, the City will plow arterial and collector streets (non-snow emergency routes), then public alleys, then bike lanes.

Why does my street still look bad if the snow emergency is over?

During the snow emergency, the City prioritizes snow emergency routes so police and fire can respond safely. Other streets may still have snow or ice and will be addressed as crews continue plowing during regular operations. Parking lanes will be addressed during the routine street cleaning schedule.

Why aren’t the streets free of snow?

With current temperatures, streets may not be fully cleared of snow and ice. Salt is less effective in extreme cold, so some snow and ice will remain until temperatures rise. The City will clear as much as possible under these conditions.

Can people now park along snow emergency routes?

Yes. Now that the snow emergency has been lifted, these streets are available for parking as long as all normal parking rules are followed. Because there is still snow accumulation along curbs, take caution when parking and exiting vehicles.

Are parking restrictions/laws still in effect?

Yes. All parking enforcement operations resumed when the snow emergency was lifted.

When does street cleaning resume?

Street cleaning will resume on Monday, February 2, 2026. Under City Code, the City uses the street cleaning schedule to continue removing snow from travel and parking lanes on non-snow emergency routes.

Do I still need to move my car on street cleaning days?

Yes. Cars that are not moved will be ticketed just like any other street cleaning day, and your street will continue to have snow and ice buildup. Snow and ice can’t be removed if cars are parked in the way. This effort is aimed at ensuring safe travel access and available parking for all residents. Vehicles are permitted to return to the parking lane once the snow plow has passed.

Who is responsible for clearing sidewalks?

Per City Code, property owners are required to clear a 3’ (three feet) wide path on their sidewalks within five (5) hours after snow stops falling. When clearing sidewalks, do not shovel snow into the street. Clearing sidewalks helps keep neighbors safe and makes it easier to move through the city.

Who is responsible for plowing alleys?

The City is responsible for plowing publicly owned alleyways. Private alleys are the responsibility of the adjoining property owners.

My car was towed during the snow emergency. How can I get it back?

The location of your car depends on where your car was towed from. Different towing companies are responsible for different streets. You will need to pay any applicable fees to the towing company before your car is released. More information is on the City’s snow resources page, including contact details for towing companies.

What happens if it snows again before the existing snow melts?

The City will do its best to keep streets, both travel lanes and parking lanes, clear of snow. Making sure cars are moved from streets during the routine street cleaning schedule is key to making sure this happens.

Can I stay parked in the garage for free?

You must leave the parking garage by the stated deadline or parking fees will apply. During a snow emergency the garages are at full capacity, and when normal business operations resume downtown, there needs to be parking available for employees and other monthly permit holders. We do our best to balance the needs of both residents and businesses.

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