Snow Removal

Snow Plowing & Snow Emergency – City of Farmington

The City of Farmington evaluates each snowfall individually and responds based on conditions, safety, and fiscal responsibility.

Snow Plowing Process                                                                             

The Farmington Department of Public Works (DPW) plows emergency and school routes first, then parking lots and city sidewalks. Next will be the residential streets if plowing is deemed necessary.

Plowing Threshold & Decision-Making

Generally, the City plows residential streets when snowfall reaches approximately four inches; however, this threshold is not absolute, and conditions are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. School bus routes and emergency routes may be plowed more frequently. For example, residential streets may be plowed when snowfall is under four inches if the snow is wet and heavy or beginning to melt – with temperatures dropping rapidly, conditions could become unsafe.

Please note, when residential roads are plowed, snow may be deposited at the ends of driveways, this is an unavoidable part of plowing operations. (To reduce being blocked in by plow snow, residents can shovel the snow in the street on the left side at the end of their driveway.)

Snow Emergency Definition and Process

A Snow Emergency means that the city will be plowing the roads and that all vehicles must be removed from the residential roads so the plows can effectively remove all of the snow.

  • The City typically declares a Snow Emergency when forecasts indicate 6 inches or more of snow. The DPW Superintendent, Public Safety Director and City Manager will assess the snow event for snow emergencies.
  • Once declared, residents are notified via:
    • TextMyGov (to sign up for alerts, text: farmingtonalerts to 91896)
    • City social media channels and
    • Farmgov.com
  • A Snow Emergency requires all vehicles to be removed from roadways within 12 hours so streets can be plowed curb-to-curb.
  • Snow Emergencies help ensure clear access for emergency responders throughout all neighborhoods.
  • Residents can park on the street after the Snow Emergency has ended.

Resident Reminders

  • Residents are responsible for keeping sidewalks clear of snow.
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