When will my street be plowed?
When the DC Snow Team deploys, residential routes are treated simultaneously with commercial routes. After heavy plows finish their routes, they are redeployed to support the light plows working on residential routes. Residents can view the progress of DC’s plows on the snow tracker. To report an area needing attention, please call 311 to put in a service request.
Will my alley be plowed?
No, the District does not plow alleys.
Will my trash and recycling be collected during a snowstorm?
Trash, recycling, and bulk items will be collected for the safety of District employees and weather permitting.
What happens if I don’t clear snow from my sidewalk?
If the sidewalks are not cleared within 24 hours after the end of the storm, residential property owners may receive a $25 fine and commercial property owners may receive a $150 fine. Property owners may delegate this responsibility to a tenant, occupant, lessee, or others by written agreement.
How do I sign up for a sidewalk shoveling exemption?
Residential property owners may be exempt from sidewalk shoveling enforcement if they live in their own homes and are 65 years old and/or a person with a disability. Residents must apply annually for the exemption, which they can do by calling 311 or submitting their application online.
Where can I place the snow that I shoveled from my property?
Place snow/ice in the tree box or the grassy area next to the sidewalk. If there is no tree box or grassy area, please place the snow/ice on the sidewalk next to the curb but not in the street or bicycle lane.
Are bike lanes and trails plowed?
Yes, a new “Non-Motorized Trails” unit has been established to clear bike paths, ADA ramps at intersections, bridge deck sidewalks, and bus shelters.
How can I find my car if it is towed?
The Towed Vehicle Locator's phone number is (202) 541-6083. Residents are also encouraged to register for the Department of Public Works’ Tow and Boot Electronic Alert Program.
Where should I go to find out about DC Public Schools (DCPS) closings?
The best source of information is the DCPS "X" account (@dcpublicschools). Information will also be shared on the DCPS website, DCPS social media accounts, and local TV and radio stations.
Which DC municipal buildings and facilities are cleared of snow first?
The Department of General Services (DGS) is responsible for maintaining 644 District-owned properties. The agency’s responsibilities include coordinating snow pretreatment and the removal of snow and ice from these facilities. While all properties are important, during a winter storm event emergency services personnel, hypothermia centers, shelters, public schools, and OSSE bus lots must be cleared first. These comprise the DGS Priority 1 locations during a snowstorm. Priority 2 locations include senior wellness centers, recreation/community centers, and remaining government buildings. The DGS Priority 3 locations include pocket and triangle parks, playgrounds and dog parks, and vacant properties.
If WMATA services stop due to winter weather conditions, how do I find out?
During periods of severe weather, Metro may limit or curtail service for safety reasons. For up-to-date service information during a winter storm, visit Metro’s website, subscribe to MetroAlerts, or call the Metro Customer Information Center at 202-637-7000.
How can I stay informed about winter weather conditions and the impact on the District?
AlertDC is the official District of Columbia communications system that sends emergency alerts, notifications, and updates to your devices. This system enables the District to provide you with critical information in situations such as traffic conditions, government closures, public safety incidents, and severe weather. AlertDC is your personal connection to real-time updates and instructions to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community. Sign up today at alertdc.dc.gov.
What should I do if I see someone experiencing homelessness during cold weather?
Please call the Shelter Hotline at 202-399-7093 if you see a person who is experiencing homelessness or may be impacted by extreme temperatures. For more information about hypothermia, please visit the Department of Human Services website.
How much food and water should I stock during the winter in case I can’t leave my home due to weather conditions?
The District’s personal preparedness campaign, ReadyDC, wants residents to have at least three days of non-perishable food per person and one gallon of water per person to be used for drinking and sanitation. To learn more preparedness tips and information, please visit ready.dc.gov/kit.