A wintery mix of weather conditions is expected over the next several days, including snow.
Preparation begins well before any flakes start to fall. Burnaby roads are pre-treated with brine and granular product to prevent ice build up, while staff pre-salt sidewalks and paved pathways around City facilities, parks and trails.
If snow begins to stick, City roads crews deploy heavy equipment to clear streets, with a focus on priority routes. Top priority routes are main arterial streets which affect the most people in Burnaby. City crews also focus on keeping emergency routes clear so first responders can travel without delay in an emergency. Depending on the severity of the weather, residential streets in Burnaby may only be cleared when these priorities have been met and resources are available.
A shared responsibility
Residents and businesses are reminded of their responsibilities regarding snow removal.
Homeowners and local businesses are required to clear the sidewalks adjacent to their property by 10 am on the morning after a snowfall. Clear sidewalks make it safer for everyone, including seniors and those with mobility issues.
Residents can also follow a few simple tips to help make garbage and recycling collection continue smoothly during a snow event:
- Place your garbage bin, green bin or recycling on collection day, not the night before. Bins should be at the collection point at 7 am.
- Consider keeping your green bin aside until the next collection week if it is not full.
- Please be patient with garbage and recycling collection during snowy weather. Collection times may be delayed.
- Download our collection app for the latest garbage and recycling updates.
Snow smart tips
- If possible, apply a thin layer of a de-icing agent (such as road salt) on your driveway and sidewalk on the night before an expected snowfall. This will prevent a layer of ice from forming, making it easier to shovel snow in the morning.
- Identify any nearby fire hydrants or catch basins in your neighbourhood, and ensure these are cleared when the snow falls.
- Warm up for five to 10 minutes prior to shovelling.
- Make sure you are pushing excess snow onto your property, rather than the street.
Whether you’re walking, driving or taking transit, winter weather will add extra travel time to each of your trips. Planning ahead is the best way to stay snow smart this winter.
For more tips: Be snow smart