Current Weather Conditions

For current weather conditions based on the Department of Public Works weather station, please click here.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Each year, the City’s Public Works Department prepares for expected snow and ice storms. To help residents better understand snow removal operations, the answers to a series of frequently asked questions follow:

When does the City respond to an ice or snow problem?
The City maintains contact with both a local weather forecasting service and a modem-accessed weather radar system. This combination forewarns the Department of storms so that employees can be either on-site or prepared to respond before the storm arrives. Public Safety personnel work closely with Public Works to identify specific salting needs.

Can residents park on the street during the winter?
By City Code, residents may park on streets except between the hours of 2:00 AM and 6:00 AM, from December 1st through March 31st. However, to permit City plows to most effectively clear City streets, it is recommended that residents avoid parking on the street during any significant snow fall until after the Department has completed its snow removal operations.

When are specific streets plowed?
While the answer is weather-influenced, under normal conditions all streets are plowed at least once within the first 6 hours of a 3-inch snowfall. It is important to note that initial operations are staged simultaneously throughout the City, and that plows may need to make multiple passes along streets to move snow to the curb. Depending on a storm’s magnitude, response time will vary. Regardless, snow removal will continue until all streets are passable and all parking areas have been cleared.

Residents interested in the methods and procedures the Public Works Department follows during snow events may download a PDF version of the 2007-2008 Snow Control Manual. Enclosed in the document are many images that show both street plow routes and areas where sidewalks are plowed.

Why do plows occasionally fill driveway approaches?
Plows need to make multiple passes to push snow back to the curbs. Because all streets need to be cleared, plows initially traverse the center of each street so cars can travel in both directions. After this has been accomplished City-wide, the plows return to push the snow back to the curbs. This is done so that melting snow can enter the storm sewers and drain away. Typically, it is during these two plowing intervals that homeowners shovel their driveways. Unfortunately, it is not possible for the trucks to plow and not fill in driveway areas. There are approximately 10,000 residential driveways in Highland Park.

Will salt be used this year?
Salt is used as one of the key elements of the snow removal operation. While the City recognizes that salt has an environmental impact, the initial salting effort concentrates on hills, intersections and areas which are inherently hazardous. Salt breaks the bond between ice and pavement, facilitating the snow removal process. Because temperatures below 20 degrees reduce salt effectiveness, calcium chloride is added to improve effectiveness.

How should drivers navigate the road when encountering a snow plow?
When approaching a snow plow, give the vehicle special consideration. These large, heavy trucks are difficult to maneuver in less than optimal driving conditions. Moreover, the sizable plow often reduces a driver’s visibility. Trucks also generate slush, which obscure visibility. Your best bet: STEER CLEAR!

What assistance can residents provide?
First, observe parking restrictions and avoid parking on the street during any significant snowfall until after the road has been cleared. If hiring a contractor to plow your driveway, ensure that your snow is not pushed across the street onto a neighbor’s property. Additionally, City ordinance prohibits removing snow or ice from any building, private property, driveway, driveway approach or public sidewalk and depositing it onto public streets. Depositing snow on public streets creates a traffic hazard particularly for streets that have already been plowed.

Where should residents call in an emergency?
The police dispatcher is always available at (847) 432-7730. If storm conditions become extreme, Public Works will activate the Emergency Communications Center at 1150 Half Day Road (Phone: 847-432-0807). In addition, all plowing vehicles maintain continuous two-way radio communication with the Police Department.

Contact Information
For further information related to snow and ice control in the City of Highland Park, call the Public Works Department switchboard at (847) 432-0807.