With a heavy snow event affecting much of the state, it’s a good time to remember that many area towns have local snow ordinances and winter parking rules designed to help crews clear streets safely and efficiently. And whether you hear that those rules are in effect from your local radio station or not, it’s ultimately your responsibility to know them — and to do your part to keep roads passable.
Most communities prohibit parking on residential streets when a snow ordinance is activated. Vehicles must remain off the street until plows have passed and the restriction is lifted. Many towns also require property owners to clear snow, ice and debris from sidewalks within a set time, often within 24 hours of the end of snowfall.
Plowing typically begins once two inches of snow has accumulated, though policies vary. During major storms, some cities may also push windrows — large piles of snow — toward the center of downtown streets. Drivers are urged to avoid these areas and limit travel unless necessary. Hampton, for example, offers text alerts when its snow ordinance goes into effect. Residents can sign up by texting HamptonIA to 67283.
