WINNIPEG SNOW BYLAWS.

Yes — and Winnipeg is unusual for it. The City of Winnipeg clears residential sidewalks itself as part of its snow clearing and ice control program, covering over 3,000 km of sidewalks and pathways during major operations. Most other Canadian cities make homeowners do this.

Clearing follows a priority system: major routes first (P1), then bus routes and collectors (P2), then residential streets (P3). Sidewalk clearing uses smaller equipment and can take several days to complete across the whole city.

Maybe — but not yet. A city pedestrian and cycling strategy recommended shifting residential sidewalk clearing to property owners (cleared within 24 hours, with fines for non-compliance), and the idea resurfaces during budget discussions. As of the 2026 season, the city still clears residential sidewalks. We will update this page if that changes.

After heavy snow, the city may declare a residential parking ban so plows can clear streets properly. Streets are divided into lettered zones cleared in 12-hour windows — check the Know Your Zone app or call 311 to find yours. Vehicles parked in violation can receive a $200 ticket ($150 if paid early). Move your car, or the plow goes around it.

Everything on your own property is yours: the driveway, front walkway, steps, and any paths to side or back entrances. No bylaw requires a specific clearing time for private areas — but you can be liable if someone is injured on your property due to negligence.

The city plows back lanes, but windrows left behind after plowing are the property owner's responsibility to clear — the city will not remove them for you.

The owner or occupant of a property is responsible for maintaining the boulevard adjacent to the property — keeping grass cut, controlling weeds, and keeping it free of garbage.

Pushing snow from your driveway onto the street or onto neighbouring properties is prohibited. Pile it on your own property — ideally on the lawn beside the driveway, not in a way that blocks the sidewalk.

Winnipeg's Neighbourhood Liveability By-law 1/2008 sets property standards for health, safety, and cleanliness. If an inspector finds a violation, a notice is issued to the property owner by registered mail to fix it. If the owner does not comply, the city may issue a ticket.

You may see websites claiming Winnipeg homeowners must clear adjacent sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall. That is not current Winnipeg law — it describes either other Canadian cities or the unadopted proposal mentioned above. Right now, the city clears residential sidewalks itself.

The city handles streets and sidewalks — but not your driveway, walkway, steps, or back-lane windrows. Those are still on you, every snowfall, all winter. A snow clearing service means your private areas are handled within hours of every storm, without you lifting a shovel. Our plans cover driveway and walkway clearing with a 12-hour guarantee; see our pricing or book a free estimate.