Mississauga Gears Up for Winter: City Shares Snow Management Tips
Mississauga, ON — As the first heavy snowfalls of the season approach, Mississauga‘s winter maintenance crews are prepped and ready to ensure residents can safely navigate city streets, sidewalks, and driveways. The City has issued a reminder to residents on how to support snow-clearing efforts while managing winter weather on their properties.
Shovelling Smart
Shovelling snow is an inevitable winter chore, and the City advises residents to shovel early and often to prevent heavy snow buildup. Homeowners are also encouraged to clear around furnace and hot water tank vents, which can become carbon monoxide hazards if blocked by snow. Those with fire hydrants on their property should clear the area around them to ensure they remain visible for fire crews.
For those dealing with driveway windrows — the ridges of snow left by plows — the City recommends piling snow on the right side of the driveway if space allows. This can reduce the amount pushed back by plows. Residents registered in the 2024-2025 Driveway Windrow Snow Clearing Program will have a three-metre space cleared in their driveway windrow, providing room for one car to safely enter or exit. However, windrow clearing may take up to 36 hours after a storm.
Smart Salt Usage
The City also advises residents to use salt sparingly and effectively. Clearing snow before applying salt is essential, and salt works best when temperatures are above -10°C. For colder weather, residents can consider alternatives like sand, grit, non-clumping kitty litter, or treated salt such as magnesium chloride, which can provide traction in icy conditions. Many abrasives can even be reused in the spring.
Keeping Streets Clear for Crews
Parking vehicles in driveways during snow-clearing events is another way residents can support City crews. Cars left on residential streets can impede snowplows, delay clearing efforts, and block access for emergency vehicles. To assist crews and avoid parking tickets, the City encourages residents to remove sports equipment and garbage bins from the curb during snow events.
Temporary parking permits may also be suspended during plowing operations. Residents can check for updates by calling 311, following @MississaugaSnow on X (formerly Twitter), or visiting the City’s website at mississauga.ca/temporaryparking.
A Season of Kindness
The City is calling on the community to extend a helping hand to neighbors who may struggle to clear their sidewalks or driveways. Residents are also urged to treat winter maintenance crews with respect and give snowplows, tractors, and other equipment ample space to work.
“Crews work around the clock to keep Mississauga moving, clearing roads, sidewalks, bus shelters, and bike lanes,” the City noted in a press release. “Your patience and cooperation are appreciated.”
For additional resources and updates throughout the winter season, residents can contact the City or follow its social media channels.
