Grab your shovels!

Jan. 18, 2022 2:30 p.m.
City of Vaughan
​It’s time to dig out fire hydrants, catch basins and sidewalks 


Monday’s major snowstorm is over – but the cleanup continues! Everyone plays an important part in Vaughan’s winter operations efforts – and that includes clearing snow and ice from fire hydrants, catch basins and sidewalks near your property. 

If there is a fire hydrant near your home or business, please make it a priority today to be sure it is clear of snow and ice (one metre all around) so firefighters can easily access it in the event of a fire. This step could save a life in the event of an emergency. 

Catch basins also need to be cleared (even in the winter) to allow for proper drainage – this helps to prevent flooding on roads during temperature fluctuations. The resident living closest to a catch basin is responsible for clearing the catch basin and a pathway to it. 

Clearing sidewalks is another way you can help ensure Vaughan’s winter operations run smoothly and efficiently. Make sure to clear snow and ice from sidewalks bordering your property within 24 hours after snowfall has ended to help ensure roads and sidewalks remain safe, as stated in the City’s By-law 300-93 (PDF). 

When shovelling your laneway or sidewalk, or when removing snow from a catch basin or fire hydrant, remember not to dump it onto the public roadway. If you have hired a contractor to plow your laneway or sidewalk, ensure they do not leave snow on the road from their removal. It is illegal to shovel snow or ice onto the road. To learn more, read the Ontario Highway Traffic Act. 

While you’re out clearing snow, make sure you do not have parked cars on the street while snowplows are out. On-street parking is not permitted between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m. in Vaughan or at any time when winter operations are in progress as per the City’s By-law 064-2019 (PDF). It’s also important to remove anything that may interfere with or be hazardous to plow crews – this includes landscaping features, such as fencing, basketball nets, decorative stones, pots, bird baths, furniture and more. 

Stay informed! 

For more information on the City’s winter operations, visit vaughan.ca/snow. For additional details and to receive the latest information on Vaughan’s winter operations: 

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