Snow & Ice Operations - Full Policy

The City of West Burlington Public Works Department works to keep streets safe and passable during snow and ice events. This page explains what residents can expect during winter weather, what to do during a Snow Emergency, and how everyone can help.

How the City Handles Snow & Ice

Each storm is different. Our response depends on snowfall amount, wind, temperature, visibility, and equipment and staff availability. The City’s existing snow removal equipment is used to carry out operations within the funds budgeted for this service.

Service Expectations

• Roadways may remain partially covered or compacted with snow and ice.
• Fully bare or “dry” pavement is not guaranteed.
• Snow piles at corners and intersections may reduce visibility; please use extra caution.
• Snow removed from streets is stored along shoulders and in the right-of-way.
• The City is not responsible for snow pushed onto streets by private property owners.

Sand, Salt, and Abrasives

After streets are plowed, sand, salt, or other abrasives may be applied where needed, based on the professional judgment of the Public Works Director or designee, especially on:

• Hills
• Curves
• Intersections
• Other problem areas

When Plowing Begins

• Plows typically begin operating after about 2 inches of snow accumulation, or earlier if warranted.
• Normal plowing hours are generally 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Overnight plowing (6:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m.) occurs only in emergencies or extreme conditions.

Street Priority Order

1. Major Collector Streets
   Gear Ave., Agency Rd., Mt. Pleasant St., Division St.
2. Minor Collector Streets
   Huston, West Burlington Ave., Van Weiss, Broadway, Washington Rd., Beaverdale Rd.
3. Local Residential Streets
4. Alleys

Streets or segments maintained under agreements with Des Moines County and/or the City of Burlington are maintained using the same standards as City streets.

Snow Emergency Parking Rules

During major winter events, the City may declare a Snow Emergency to allow plows to clear streets as efficiently and safely as possible.

1. Parking Ban on Streets

• The City Administrator, Public Works Director, or their designee may declare a parking prohibition on city streets due to snow, sleet, or freezing rain.
• When a Snow Emergency is in effect, no parking is allowed on designated streets during the prohibition period.
• The prohibition ends at a declared time or when announced by the City Administrator, Public Works Director, or their designee.

2. How You Will Be Notified

• Local media (radio, TV, newspapers)
• City website: westburlingtoniowa.gov
• City social media accounts
• Email or text alerts through the City’s Notify Me system

The Snow Emergency parking prohibition will begin at least two hours after public announcement and will be announced between 6:00 a.m. and 10:30 p.m.

3. Ending the Parking Prohibition

The City Administrator, Public Works Director, or their designee will announce when the parking prohibition is lifted and normal parking rules resume.

4. Stalled Vehicles

• If your vehicle stalls where a parking prohibition is in effect, you must move it immediately to a legal location.
• Do not leave or abandon your vehicle in a prohibited area except for a reasonable time to get assistance.

5. Fines for Non-Compliance

• A $50.00 fine will be issued for failing to remove a vehicle during a Snow Emergency.
• No warning will be issued, so it is important to move your vehicle promptly.

6. Removal of Vehicles

• Police or Public Works may remove (tow) vehicles:
  • Parked in prohibited areas during a Snow Emergency
  • Stalled vehicles not being moved
  • Vehicles violating parking laws that interfere with snow removal
• The Police Department will notify the vehicle owner within 24 hours of removal.
• If a vehicle is not claimed within three days, it may be considered abandoned.

7. Downtown Exceptions

Vehicles parked in the 100 and 200 blocks of Broadway Street and the 100 block of Wheeler Street are exempt from towing and citation regulations during a Snow Emergency if the operator is working or doing business with a downtown establishment.

8. Stay Updated

• Sign up for email or text alerts via the City’s Notify Me system at westburlingtoniowa.gov.
• Snow Emergency notices will also be posted on the City’s website and social media sites.

9. If Your Vehicle Is Towed

1. Contact the West Burlington Police Department for towing information.
2. Be prepared to provide your vehicle registration and other relevant details.
3. Go to the towing company’s lot to retrieve your vehicle.
4. Pay any towing and storage fees required.
5. If you do not claim your vehicle within three days, it may be considered abandoned.

Do’s and Don’ts for Winter Weather

Do's

• Drive slowly and allow extra stopping distance.
• Give snowplows plenty of space and avoid passing them.
• Move your vehicle off the street when a Snow Emergency is declared.
• Keep the area around your mailbox clear of snow for mail delivery.
• Mark your mailbox in drift-prone areas to help plow operators avoid it.
• Clear snow from around fire hydrants on or near your property.
• Stay informed through the City website, social media, and Notify Me alerts.

Don’t

• Do not park on streets during a Snow Emergency.
• Do not push or blow snow into the street from driveways or sidewalks.
• Do not expect the City to clear private driveways, sidewalks, or private streets.
• Do not abandon stalled vehicles in travel lanes or where a parking prohibition is in effect.
• Do not assume pavement will be completely bare; compacted snow and ice are common in winter.

Mailboxes, Hydrants, and Property Responsibilities

• The City will only pay for damaged mailboxes if there is actual contact by snow removal equipment.
• Claims for damaged mailboxes must be submitted within 72 hours to be considered.
• Homeowners are responsible for clearing any snow that may accumulate around their mailbox.
• Homeowners with fire hydrants abutting their property are responsible for keeping them clear in case of fire.

Emergency Conditions

In certain emergency situations, the normal sequence of snow removal may be suspended so that the City can respond where the need is greatest.

An emergency may be declared when weather conditions create a risk of loss of life, serious injury, or extensive property damage. These emergencies should be reported to the West Burlington Police Department, which will notify the Public Works Director or designee.

The provisions of this policy may also be suspended if the Governor implements a state disaster plan or if the Mayor declares an emergency under State Code.