Frequently-Asked Questions about Plowing

When does the city start plowing?
This depends on storm projections. In general, however, plowing begins whenever conditions make driving difficult.

How long does it take to complete the plowing?
During average winter conditions, it takes eight to nine hours to complete snow removal operations.

Which streets are plowed first? Does the city always follow the same order for plowing streets?
Major roads and school areas are the first to receive maintenance. Residential streets and cul-de-sacs are cleared next. The city strives to conduct operations consistently from storm to storm. This increases both effectiveness and efficiency.

I saw the plow pass by on a neighboring street, but it didn't come down my street. Why not?
It may be that a neighboring street happens to be a major road through the neighborhood or that operators are simply plowing the streets in the most efficient pattern and your street will be plowed soon. Occasionally, however, primary streets with high volumes of traffic will require sanding or plowing that is not needed on residential streets.

Why do you plow so far away from my mailbox?
City crews plow as close to mailboxes as possible without risking damage to the box. Many times high snow banks cause snow to fall back into the street. This snow gets compacted by postal vehicles making it difficult to clear the entire width of the road in subsequent plowing. Residents are encouraged to clear the area in front of their mailbox after every plowing.

Why do the plows leave snow in the center of my cul-de-sac?
Center storage can be accomplished while trucks complete the street leading to the cul-de-sac and other surrounding streets. This reduces or eliminates the number of support vehicles needed to clear cul-de-sacs, saving time and money. In addition, center storage reduces the large piles of snow otherwise stored on the resident's boulevard or yard.

Why does the city prohibit on-street parking between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.? Does it really make a difference?
The average time city crews begin plowing operations is 2 a.m., so this is a logical time to require that vehicles be off the streets. Cars parked on the streets present a hazard, because they can be difficult for the plow operator to see during snowstorms. "Snowbirds" also are obstructions that prevent clearing the road from curb to curb. If vehicles are off the street, residents will get more effective plowing.

Does the city plow all of the streets in Woodbury? If not, who is responsible for the streets the city does not plow?
The city does not plow county roads, freeways, or private roads (marked with a blue sign). Washington County is responsible for the county roads, including Valley Creek Road (between I-494 and Woodbury Drive), Radio Drive, Woodbury Drive, Bailey Road, and Military Road. The State Department of Transportation plows the interstate highways, as well as Highway 120 and Highway 95. Private roads generally are cleared by contractors under an arrangement with the neighborhood association.

What if my trash/recycling collection day coincides with plowing activities?
If your trash/recycling collection day coincides with plowing activities, make sure your trash can and recycling bin are well behind the curb or in the driveway so the plow will not hit them.

• Snow & Ice Control
• Winter Parking Regulations
• Frequently Asked Questions About Plowing
• Mailbox Policy
• Sod Damage & Sprinkler Systems
• Snow Removal Violations
• 10 Tips for Surviving the Winter Plowing Season
• Adopt-a-Hydrant