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1. When do the plows hit the streets?

The Service Director monitors local weather forecasting services so that the department is prepared to respond in a timely manner. Also, the Police Department works closely with the Service Department to identify areas that need attention.

2. When will my street be plowed?

This answer is dependent upon weather conditions and specifics of the storm. Major roadways are the primary concern of our Service Department. Side streets are plowed on a regular basis to prevent heavy accumulations and ice build up. Snow plow operations will continue until the streets are passable.

3. Why can't the plow operators avoid pushing snow into my driveway apron?

Plows are designed to unload snow to the side in the most efficient means possible to clear the streets for traffic, drainage, and to provide clearance for future snow removal operations. As a result, snow is discharged to the curb where driveway aprons are located; there is no way to avoid this. If possible, when plowing or shoveling your property, deposit snow to the right of your driveway (when facing the street) to minimize this effect. DO NOT push the snow back into the street or onto a neighboring property. You should advise your snow plow contractor of this as well, as tickets will be issued if any snow from your property is left in the street.

4. Why are only selected sidewalks plowed?

The city maintains sidewalks along school routes, in the retail district, and at city-owned facilities. Sidewalk clearing operations are secondary to the plowing of roadways. The City of Mayfield Heights Codified Ordinances require that homeowners maintain the sidewalks in front of their homes. Residents should consider lending a hand to neighbors who are unable to maintain the sidewalks on their own.

5. Can I park on the street during the winter?

Snow removal can be achieved more efficiently on a road void of parked cars. Cars that remain on the street will be plowed around. This can create a safety hazard once the car is removed. Parking on city streets may be prohibited at the discretion of the Chief of Police during snow removal operations. Observe parking bans or your vehicle may be ticketed.

6. How can I safely share the road with snow plows?

It is best not to pass the plows. Simply let them clear the road in front of you. Also, be sure to maintain a safe distance of at least 200 feet behind a plow to allow for safe braking and for avoiding ice and debris that may be thrown by the plow. Never get in between trucks that are plowing in tandem (2 or more trucks in a row).

7. What can I do to help the snow removal effort?

Observe parking restrictions. Keep a safe distance from snow plows as you travel the roadways. Avoid putting snow on the street and advise your snow plow contractor of the same. Deposit snow cleared from your property to the right of your driveway (as you face the street) to reduce the amount of snow that is thrown back into your apron by city plows. Keep your sidewalks free from snow to assist pedestrians during their travels around town and lend a hand to neighbors who are unable to accomplish this task on their own. Clear a 3-foot diameter around the fire hydrants near your home in order to save valuable time in the event of an emergency.

The street sweeper will make its rounds in the spring to sweep up salt and debris that accumulates over the winter. Remember that there is no spring leaf collection. Leaves should be bagged and placed at the curb for collection on your regular trash collection day.