Snow and Ice Control Operations

Engineering Operations staff monitor our road network for hazardous conditions arising from snow/ice during regular working hours while the Delta Police monitor conditions after hours. Roads are cleared on the following three tier priority basis:

1. First Priority
   Public transit routes, major collectors, select school access roadways and some roads in hilly areas are given first priority. Sanding and snowplowing are carried out as long as poor conditions exist, overtime is automatic.
2. Second Priority
   Secondary through roads in residential areas and school bus routes. Overtime may be scheduled to complete secondary priorities.
3. Third Priority
   Minor residential streets and cul-de-sacs. Work is carried out on a site specific basis, usually at the request of the residents and normally after inspection by a supervisor. Work is carried out during normal working hours only.

• View Delta's Snow and Ice Control Policy { pdf 1MB }
• Snow and Ice Control Route Maps
  • Annacis { pdf 84KB }
  • Ladner { pdf 171KB }
    • East Ladner { pdf 117KB }
    • West Ladner { pdf 209KB }
  • North Delta { pdf 284KB }
  • Tilbury { pdf 86KB }
  • Tsawwassen { pdf 183KB }

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Report a Snow/Ice Concern

To report a snow/ice concern, use the On-Line Service Request Form. Alternatively, if you require assistance during regular office hours, please call the Engineering Department at (604) 946-3260. For emergencies after regular office hours, please call Delta Police at (604) 946-4411. If you wish to leave a non-emergency message, please call the Engineering Department at (604) 946-3260 and we will return your call during regular office hours.

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Public Responsibility

Sidewalk Snow Removal

We would like to remind commercial property and business owners that you are responsible for clearing snow from sidewalks located adjacent to your property to ensure the safety of pedestrians. We also request the assistance of residential property owners to clear snow from sidewalks abutting their property. While clearing sidewalks, please do not push snow onto the street as snow equipment may plow the snow back onto the sidewalk area.

Be a Good Neighbour!

During the snowy weather, remember to help out neighbours, friends and family who may not be able clear their driveway or sidewalk and offer to run errands.

Volunteer for Delta's Snow Angels Program. This program links volunteers who are willing to shovel snow off driveways, walkways and sidewalks with individuals who are unable to do so themselves.

Helpful Tips

Your patience and co-operation is appreciated when our snow/ice program is in operation. The following are helpful snow tips to assist us in providing you with the best service possible:

• If possible, do not park your vehicle on the street or in your cul-de-sac
  An empty street makes the passage of snow plows and salt spreaders much easier.
• Do not attempt to stop the plow truck operators
  They follow specifically laid out routes and are under the direction of Operations Yards. Please direct all requests, comments and concerns directly to the Engineering Department at (604) 946-3260 during business hours or to Delta Police at (604) 946-4411 after business hours.
• Walk on the left side of the road (facing traffic)
  on roadways where there are no sidewalks or the sidewalks are impassable due to snow. Give the snow plows as much room as possible. Our drivers are courteous, but the equipment they are operating are large and complex. Never attempt to stop a plow or salt truck.
• Never shovel snow from sidewalks and driveways into the streets
  The snow plows always push the snow to the side of the road. Accordingly, this may result in snow being pushed back onto your driveway rather than plow it away. Pushing the snow from your driveway onto the road will add to the pack on the roads making a hazardous situation.
• Pile snow shoveled from your driveway on the right side facing the street
  This reduces the chance of having the plow pile the snow over your driveway entrance after you have shoveled it out. Our driver's attempt to leave clear entrance to driveway whenever possible. This is not always possible following heavy snowfall.
• Please shovel any catch basins if they are in front of your home
  Melting snow can drain into the storm system and this will reduce the chance of flooding and icing in the street as well as the chance of flooding on your property.
• Garbage cans and recycling should not be placed on the road
  Keep them on the sidewalk or boulevard and remove them as soon as possible after they have been emptied.

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Winter Driving & Walking Safety Tips

Winter driving can be challenging for even the most experienced drivers. Poor visibility and the presence of snow, slush and ice are additional hazards we normally don't have to deal with. Having the correct tires can make driving in winter conditions easier.
Your vehicle's tires should be suited to your specific driving needs. The tires you need depends on when, where and what you drive.

Consulting your local tire retailer can make your winter driving experiences safer and less stressful.

Tips to Avoid Falls

• Wear well-insulated, waterproof boots with low heels. They should be lightweight, with tread, or traction-slip-ons or ice-picks.
• Expect a slippery surface
• Never wear indoor shoes outside.
• Shuffle slightly so both feet are down flat on the ground as you walk (this keeps your base of support low and stable).
• If you have a walker, buy slip-ups, traction covers for the legs (it's like having snow tires on your car).
  

Other driving tips:

• Tune up and winterize your vehicle
• Clean snow and ice off your vehicle to ensure your headlights and windows are clear
• Give yourself extra time to reach your destination
• Reduce your speed and turn on your headlights
• Drive defensively
• Leave extra distance between you and the vehicle ahead of you
• Leave 50 metres distance between your vehicle and Delta's snow clearing equipment

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Garbage/Recycling Collection during Snowfall

In the event of hazardous conditions due to snow and ice, garbage and recycling collection may be delayed. If this occurs and your collection day is missed:

• The contractor will either attempt to make the collection later in the day or the following day. Please ensure your containers are not buried in the snow.
• If our contractor is not able to access your garbage/recycling containers, it will be collected on your next scheduled collection day.

For more information, please call Engineering at (604) 946-3260.

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