What is a winter service vehicle stop?
A winter service vehicle stop is a planned pause for a snowplow or salt truck at your property. You might need a stop to clear a driveway blocked by a snow ridge, move a large item onto the street, or access a loading zone. Our crews will work with you to keep your property accessible while keeping the roads safe.
When you can request a stop
Residents can request a stop during active winter maintenance operations. Standard maintenance hours run from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Emergency stops for hazards or trapped vehicles are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Keep in mind that our crews follow the Winter Sector plowing schedule, which divides the city into six zones. We will do our best to schedule your stop during the crew's route, but we cannot guarantee an exact arrival time.
How to request a stop
You can request a stop using one of the following methods:
- Call 311 inside city limits or 519-555-0100 outside city limits.
- Submit a service request through our online form.
- Email the Roads & Winter Maintenance team at [email protected].
Please provide your full address, the reason for the stop, and the best time for the crew to arrive. For non-emergency requests, please give us at least four hours notice so we can adjust the route.
What to expect
Once your request is logged, a dispatcher will confirm the stop and give you an estimated window. When the vehicle arrives, a crew member will step out to coordinate with you. If you need a snow ridge cleared from your driveway, the crew will use the plow's flipper to lower the ridge or carefully remove the snow. Please do not attempt to stop a moving vehicle or flag down a crew member in the roadway. Wait for the scheduled time and stay near your entrance.
Fees and rules
Standard residential stops are free. If your request requires a second trip outside of your sector's scheduled plowing window, a call-out fee may apply under the Fees and Charges By-law 2025-151. All winter service activities follow the Winter Maintenance and Parking By-law 2020-097.
Contact us
For questions about winter service stops or to discuss a recurring need, contact the Roads & Winter Maintenance section.
- Phone: 519-555-0100
- Office: Civic Operations Centre, 455 Railside Road
- Hours: Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
- Supervisor: James Whitford, Roads Superintendent