What: Clearing Snow from Driveways
When: For the Immediate Attention of the General Public
Where: Countywide
Why: To ensure the safety of the motoring public, Road Commission truck operators, and area residents
Background
In response to the recent heavy snowfalls in Washtenaw County, the Road Commission would like to remind property owners and private snow removal contractors that State Law prohibits the plowing or shoveling of snow, ice or slush onto or across roadways or highways, as it can present a serious traffic hazard. In addition, snow must not be piled in such a way as to obstruct motorists’ vision.
As you clear your driveway, the Road Commission advises to pile the snow on the right side of the driveway, as you face the road. This will keep snow from obstructing the roadway, and should also minimize the amount of snow pushed back into your driveway by snowplows. Residents should also make certain that their trash and recycling containers are placed off the edge of the road shoulder.
In addition, the Road Commission would like to remind residents that snow removal operations are conducted on state and county roads in accordance with the following Winter Maintenance Guidelines, which are adopted annually by the County Board of Road Commissioners:
- Priority 1 - State Trunklines
- Priority 2 - High volume hard surface roads
- Priority 3 - Medium volume hard surface roads
- Priority 4 - Subdivision streets
- Priority 5 - Gravel roads
Please be advised too that due to ongoing budget constraints, in 2006 the WCRC Board passed a resolution that overtime work (weekends and after normal working hours) may only be authorized by the Managing Director or his designee for Priority 4 (Subdivisions) and Priority 5 (gravel) roads, if there is at least three (3) inches accumulation of snow, or if an ice storm and/or blowing and drifting snow has occurred that interferes with the flow of vehicular traffic.
The Road Commission thanks the motoring public and area residents for their patience as road crews work to clear the roadways during and after each snowfall.
For additional information on the Road Commission’s Winter Maintenance Guidelines and other Operations Department activities, go to Operations, under our "Services" section.
Contact
If you require assistance with media information, please contact Val Cooper, Public Information Officer, at (734) 327-6675 or via email at: cooperv@wcroads.org.