Five One-Minute Videos Answer the Most Frequently Asked Questions About Snow Removal
Check out these informative videos that contain key information about what to expect during snow storms:
MCDOT to Enhance Sustainable Salt Practices During Snow Removal
MCDOT will be using new environmental controls to better balance salt use during snow removal operations this winter. Learn more.
When Snow or Ice is Predicted, MCDOT Springs into Action
MCDOT has 200 Highway Services employees and 175 pieces of equipment to handle snow operations. If more resources are needed, contractors can be called upon to immediately provide hundreds of pieces of additional equipment and plow operators. Learn more about how MCDOT tackles winter storms and read FAQ's.
Before snow MCDOT will pre-treat primary and arterial roads with salt brine or salt depending on the storm profile. This helps us get ahead of the storm. Generally, plowing operations do not begin until at least three inches of snow have accumulated on the road. This helps protect both the road surface and the plow blades. Plowing operations focus on primary, arterial & emergency roads first before shifting into residential communities. Plowing operations are aimed at making the roads passable. Depending on how much snow falls, it may take several days before a plow can reach every street. MCDOT crews also clear sixty miles of sidewalks on County right-of-ways, and three miles of bike paths and trails. Residents are responsible for shoveling their own sidewalks.
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Who Plows My Street?
MCDOT is responsible for clearing snow from 5,200 lane miles of County-maintained roads – but this doesn’t include every road in the County. Read more, or visit the County's Snow Portal to find out who plows your street. Here are other agencies that also handle snow removal:
WMATA is responsible for metro stations and parking lots.
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Ride On "S" (Storm) Service Plan
Ride On contractors clear nearly 800 bus stops and work to keep transit centers clear of snow and ice. Follow Ride On on twitter @RideOnMCT for real-time service announcements related to weather. |
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Information on Snow Emergency Routes
Both the State of Maryland and Montgomery County have designated certain roads as Snow Emergency Routes, prominently marked with red and white signs. When the
State and/or County initiates its snow emergency plan, it is illegal to park on these designated roads. Vehicles found blocking snow routes during an emergency may be ticketed and towed at the owner’s expense. State and County snow emergency plans may not be put into effect simultaneously, so pay special attention to news broadcasts when announcements are made. Watch this video to learn more. |
During Snowstorms, When is Parking Free in County Garages?
During a County Executive-declared snow emergency in Montgomery County, the MCDOT Director may announce that parking is free in County-owned garages and lots for residents to use for the duration of the snow emergency. This helps to get cars off the roads helping plowing operations and overall safety. Normal rates for on-street meters will still be in affect for non-snow emergency roadways. Real-time storm-related parking information will be posted on twitter.
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S.T.O.R.M App Offers New Features for Drivers
The Maryland State Highway Administration added new features to its Statewide Transportation Operations Response Map (S.T.OR.M) app this year, available on computers and mobile devices. This web-based app shows the location and status of snow removal equipment across the state and, as part of the new features, drivers can now check the direction of where the plow trucks are heading and check the state's traffic cameras to have a better idea of the road conditions. Read the article and try out the S.T.O.R.M. App now. |
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Do You Know the Difference Between a Winter Weather Advisory, Watch or Warning?
Check the National Weather Service website for definitions about the difference between these and other weather-related advisories. |
Clearing Sidewalks of Snow and Ice - If You Own Property, It's Your Responsibility
Clearing sidewalks within 24 hours after the end of a snowstorm is a civic responsibility that keeps our communities and neighbors safe – and it’s the law. Property owners are required to clear sidewalks in front of, and alongside, their properties. Be a good neighbor by clearing the sidewalks in front of your house and assisting those in your neighborhood who may need help. Read more. 
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