Winter in Calgary brings snow, fun, festivity…and responsibility. For homeowners looking to stay safe (and avoid nasty fines) this winter, we’ve got you covered with our guide to effective snow removal and winter safety tips for Calgary.
Don’t want to do all that shoveling? Save yourself the trouble and backache, and check out our Calgary snow removal services.
Know the Rules—Snow Removal is the Law in Calgary
- If you live in Calgary, you’re required by city bylaw to clear snow and ice from any public sidewalk bordering your property within 24 hours of a snowfall ending, down to bare pavement.
- Sidewalks and pathways adjacent to your property—even if it’s a rental—are also your responsibility, whether you live there or not.
- Snow removed from your private driveway or walkway cannot be dumped onto public roads or sidewalks.
- Ignoring these bylaws can lead to fines (often between $150 and $750!), or the city clearing the snow and billing you for it.
Staying on top of your property’s snow removal isn’t just about avoiding fines, though. It’s about keeping your community safe.
Practice Smart Snow Removal
Good snow removal is more than clearing the snow—it’s about doing it correctly. Best practices include:
- Shovel early and shovel often. If you’ve ever dealt with snow in Calgary, you know the fresh stuff is lighter and easier to remove, but if you wait, it has a chance to compact and get very heavy.
- Push rather than lift to protect your back. When shoveling or snow‑blowing, try to push snow outward when possible. If lifting is necessary, always bend your knees.
- Use a sturdy ergonomic snow shovel—ideally with a curved handle—to protect your back. For larger driveways or heavy snowfall, a snowblower can save a lot of time and effort.
- Treat surfaces after clearing to manage ice and prevent slips—once the snow is cleared, scatter a thin layer of de‑icer, sand, or gravel for traction. Use calcium chloride or magnesium-based de‑icers (gentler on concrete and less harmful to plants/pets), or natural abrasives like sand or kitty litter.
- Clear your gutters and ensure your downspouts direct water away from walkways/driveways, as pooling water can freeze and create dangerous ice patches.
- For high‑traffic areas—like steps, doorways, or walkways to your home—consider installing heated mats. They can drastically reduce ice buildup and make snow management easier.
Why Good Snow Removal Matters in Calgary (Hint: It’s Not Just About Compliance)
- Safety is a priority. Snow removal drastically reduces the risk of slip-and-fall injuries on sidewalks and driveways. Icy surfaces are one of the leading causes of injuries in the winter.
- Snow removal helps protect your driveway from freeze-thaw damage. Overuse of harsh salt to break down snow or letting ice build up can lead to cracks and costly driveway repairs.
- Regular shoveling actually protects your vehicle. Over time, snow piled under or around your car can cause harm—from paint damage to corrosion from melted salt.
- It makes you a good neighbour. Clearing your driveways and sidewalks makes it safer for everyone, including neighbours, delivery people (you don’t want to miss that Amazon package!), and visitors.
Stay Safe, Compliant & Comfortable with Calgary Snow Removal Services
Winter can be a hassle. Besides the cold, damp weather, ice and snow removal just adds to the annoyance. This winter, follow these safety tips for Calgary and our snow removal best practices to stay safe and compliant.
Prefer to skip the trouble altogether? Let us handle your snow removal needs! At Naiad Irrigation, we provide reliable, punctual snow removal in Calgary all winter long so you can rest assured your walkways and driveway are clear, without worrying about the back pain.
To learn more or schedule your snow removal services, contact Naiad Irrigation today!
Book a service or call us today @ 587-200-3994. We provide top-notch services from Irrigation Association-certified professionals.
