Snow Removal

City streets are categorized into three categories: arterials, collectors and local/residential streets. Arterials are the main thoroughfares in the City; collectors are the secondary streets as they carry traffic to the arterials; all other streets not classified as collector streets or arterial streets are designated as local/residential streets. For snow and ice operational purposes, arterial and collector streets are classified as Priority 1 streets, while local/residential streets are Priority 2.

Priority 1: Due to emergency and school routes, and the high volume of traffic, emphasis is placed on treating these roads first. Roads listed as Priority 1 streets will be maintained in as near bare pavement conditions as possible at all times. Adhering to this prioritization is critical in order to maintain access for emergency services to all business and residential areas throughout the community. Typically, Priority 1 streets are returned to normal driving conditions within eight-to-12 hours after precipitation ends.

Priority 2: Local/residential streets will be cleaned and/or treated upon completion of all Priority 1 streets. Typically, Priority 2 streets are returned to normal driving conditions within 12 to 24 hours after precipitation ends.

During any snow event, our focus is on returning public roadways to safe driving conditions. During heavy snowfalls, since snowplows are designed to push snow towards the curb, it is unavoidable that crews may also push snow into a freshly cleared driveway. While this can cause frustration and additional work for our residents, please understand that our crews are working to maintain an acceptable service level throughout the City for the safety of the traveling public. Plows will not return to clear snow that has been pushed into residential driveway.

If you believe your private property has been damaged by a City snow plow, please contact the Public Service Department, at 614-583-5350 or by email at [email protected]. Please note, there are also private contractors who drive in the City with plows on their vehicles; all City vehicles are clearly marked with the City’s emblem.

Individual homeowners are responsible for maintenance and clearing of sidewalks adjacent to their property. During winter months, residents are encouraged to keep their sidewalks clear of snow and ice – providing a safe walkway for those travelling on the sidewalk. A volunteer-based program is available to assist elderly residents with snow removal. Those residents who would like to volunteer or those looking for assistance can sign up for the Winter Warriors program by contacting the UA Commission on Aging, UA Village Program at 614-427-3920.

When the forecast calls for an accumulation of snow, or when the temperatures mean icy roads could develop, the City applies liquid anti-icers to roadways, focusing on arterial and collector streets. Anti-icing procedures occur prior to a snow to help prevent snow from bonding to the road surface, making it easier to plow the roads clear and increase road users’ safety. The City of Upper Arlington uses a sugar beet-based anti-icing liquid combined with salt brine; this combination is less corrosive than salt brine alone and helps reduce the amount of salt application needed following precipitation.

Thank you for your interest in helping others in our community. Please call the UA Commission on Aging, UA Village Program at 614-427-3920 for details.

Yes, but if at all possible, we ask that you find an alternate place to park during times of heavy snowfall. With fewer cars parked on the street, snow plows are able to remove all of the snow from the street without having to swerve around parked vehicles.

During winter months, ice build-up from overactive sump pumps and/or water breaks can create hazardous conditions if it forms ice patches in the roadway or over the sidewalks. Please contact the Public Service Department at 614-583-5350 or by email at [email protected] to notify us of any potential hazards. The Public Works Division will treat these areas with additional salt after plowing operations have finished.