Snow Removal & Safety
Crews directed by the City's Street Superintendent are responsible for clearing winter snow from over 8 miles of State trunkline, 83 miles of City streets, and all non-motorized trails. Careful consideration has been given to prioritizing the snow removal effort. The safety and health of the public is always our first priority.
Keep Your Sidewalk Accessible for Everyone
During winter, the City of Traverse City reminds residents and business owners that they are responsible for the removal of any snow and ice that accumulates on the sidewalks immediately adjacent to their property. City officials are also encouraging residents to help their neighbors and relatives who have difficulty removing snow from their sidewalks.
Accessibility for All
Many people rely on walking and transit as their primary way to access jobs, services, and businesses. Without clear paths through snow and ice, it is especially difficult for people with disabilities, the elderly, and children to walk safely.
Safety for Our First Responders
Uncleared pathways make access difficult for firefighters and paramedics in cases of emergency. Assisting Public Services The City's Department of Publics Services helps in clearing snow from sidewalks throughout the winter season, however, please remember their priorities are primary corridors and sidewalks proximate to schools. DPS does not have the capacity to remove snow 24/7 and subsequent
snowfall may accumulate between plowing efforts and shift times. When residents promptly clear
snow and ice, they play a crucial role in keeping Traverse City moving.
It's the Law
As a reminder, under City Ordinance 668.11, the removal of snow and ice from private property and the sidewalk abutting or crossing private property shall be the responsibility of the occupant of such private property. Residents who would like to report a problem related to the enforcement of the City’s snow removal ordinance, are encouraged to call Code Enforcement Officer Mike Trombley, (231) 922-4414.
Per Ordinance 668.11 - "The removal of snow and ice from private property and the sidewalk abutting or crossing private property shall be the responsibility of the occupant of such private property. However, if there is no occupant or if the occupant cannot be determined due to multiple occupancies of the property, then the responsibility shall be the owners of such private property. The removal of snow and ice from public property and the sidewalk abutting or crossing such public property shall be the responsibility of the political subdivision or governmental agency that either owns or occupies the public property."