Winter clean-up can create dangers beyond the driveway
Ontario Provincial Police are reminding residents, property owners, and businesses that shoveling, plowing, or blowing snow onto roadways is illegal and poses serious safety risks.
Under Section 181 of the Highway Traffic Act, no one is permitted to deposit snow or ice on a roadway without written permission from the Ministry or the road authority responsible for maintaining the road. Violators can be charged under Section 214(1), which carries fines ranging from $60 to $1,000.
Police say snow pushed onto roadways can obstruct sightlines, create icy patches, interfere with snowplow operations, and increase the risk of collisions for both motorists and pedestrians. These hazards also place additional strain on winter maintenance crews who must return to re-clear affected areas.
While recognizing the challenges posed by significant snowfall, particularly where storage space is limited, the OPP says using roadways for snow disposal is not a safe or acceptable solution. Residents are urged to keep snow on their own property and follow local municipal guidelines.
The OPP adds everyone has a role to play in keeping roads safe and encourages the public to check municipal websites or contact their local OPP detachment for more information on winter safety and bylaws.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
