Clearing sidewalks and shoveling snow


In Calgary, keeping our sidewalks clear of snow is more than just a winter task; it's a shared commitment to community safety. When Calgarians promptly remove snow, it ensures accessible pathways, smoother traffic, and a secure environment for everyone. This collective effort plays a vital role in maintaining the functionality and vibrancy of our city throughout the winter months.

Bylaws related to clearing snow and ice

  • Property owners must clear sidewalks within 24 hours post-snowfall.
  • The City is responsible for clearing its property's sidewalks in the same timeframe.

Reporting problem properties

Contact 311 to report a sidewalk not cleared within the 24-hour time frame:

To report other snow/ice issues, please visit our Snow and ice concerns page.

Frequently asked questions

Where am I allowed to put the snow I've shoveled?

  • Allowed: Shovel snow from public spaces (e.g., sidewalks) onto other public spaces (e.g., roads).
  • Not Allowed: Shovel snow from private property (e.g., driveways) onto public spaces.

In the spirit of being a good neighbour, please do not pile shoveled snow:

  • On a road to the extent that it blocks access
  • Into a crosswalk
  • On top of a storm drain
  • Into a neighbour's yard

Windrows - who clears the snow created by the plows?

  • Property owners can clear windrows created by plows for easier access.
  • The City does not undertake windrow clearance but crews make every effort to reduce their size.

Who clears what?

  • ​The City clears sidewalks bordering and on City property. 
  • Private property owners/occupants clear the sidewalk/pathway bordering their property (see illustration). 
  • No one is required to clear walkways between homes.
​

Who clears what?

Help with snow clearing

Snow Angels

Snow Angels are the individuals who shovel their neighbour’s sidewalk just to be a good neighbour. The City does not have a list of snow angels to match with individuals, but we do encourage the practice of helping neighbours who could use a hand. We also provide recognition to the angels we hear about through our nomination process. Please visit our Snow Angels page for more information.

Free sand-salt mixture

Sand-salt is available for individual use on sidewalks bordering private properties. The mix helps break down snow and ice, making it easier for you to meet your snow and ice control responsibilities. Find a location near you.

This is a free service but please note:

  • Supply is available on a first-come, first-served basis. There’s no guarantee any is available when you arrive. Access to available supply is open at any time on any day.
  • Limit your haul to one container per visit.
  • Bring your own container (under 25 kg) and shovel.
  • Supply is for individual use only. No contractors, please.

Contracted snow services

There are many private snow clearing contractors for hire in Calgary. Some will even haul snow away and either store or melt it. Contractors who store snow must do so on their own property. The City does not have snow storage facilities for public use. Dumping snow in the Bow or Elbow River is not permitted.

Filing a complaint

If you know of a snow and ice bylaw infraction and would like to report it, please call 311 (from within Calgary) or 403-268-CITY (2489) (from outside Calgary), use the 311 app or online below.

File a snow and ice complaint

To help us respond faster, please be ready with the following information:

  • Your name and address.
  • A primary and alternate phone number.
  • The address and exact location of the property for which you wish to register a complaint.
  • A brief and concise description of the complaint.
  • Note: 24 hours must have elapsed since the last snow fall within the City of Calgary before you can submit a complaint.

This information will remain confidential. No anonymous complaints will be accepted - you must identify yourself with the 311 service representative. To report other snow/ice issues, please visit our Snow and ice concerns page.

Learn more about filing a bylaw complaint and the process.

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