Pathway & Sidewalk Snow Removal

The City of Lethbridge clears over 215 kilometers of sidewalks and pathways within the city. These sidewalks and pathways are cleared on a priority system.

Click here for a map of ALL sidewalks and pathways that the City clears along with their priority rating.

Priority Routes for Pathway & Sidewalk Clearing

	Title	Accordion Answer
	Priority 1 - cleared within 24 hours after a snow event*	City-owned buildings such as the Lethbridge Public Library (downtown and Crossings branches), the Galt Museum, Lethbridge Transit terminals (downtown and north Lethbridge), Lethbridge Police Service headquarters, City Hall, downtown Fire/EMS headquarters. Click here for a Priority 1 Map *A snow event includes a new snowfall or drifting snow. With each new event, snow clearing restarts with Priority 1 areas. If snow events occur within a few days of each, there may be delays in the clearing of Priority 2, 3 or 4 sidewalks and pathways.
	Priority 2 - cleared within 48 hours after a snow event*	City sidewalks surrounding school grounds, regional trails such as those along Scenic Drive as well as regional parks such as Henderson Park, Nicholas Sheran Park and Legacy Park. Click here for a Priority 2 Map School districts are responsible to clear city sidewalks fronting school buildings and within school sites.
	Priority 3 - cleared within 72 hours after a snow event*	Community core park trails Sidewalks and pathways that surround parks and connect to community sidewalks are also completed at this time. Pathways within smaller parks are not cleared due to the massive extent of our park and pathway system and current resources available. Click here for a Priority 3 Map of sidewalks and pathways Community Core Parks are large, high use parks designed to meet the needs of a larger community area. i.e. Chinook Lake Park, Fairmont Lake Park, and West Highlands Park.
	Priority 4 - cleared within 96 hours after a snow event*	Neighbourhood sidewalks that don't front residential or commercial properties. Click here for a Priority 4 Map of walkways Residents are responsible for clearing city sidewalks that border their property.

*A snow event includes a new snowfall or drifting snow. With each new event, snow clearing restarts with Priority 1 areas. If snow events occur within a few days of each, there may be delays in the clearing of Priority 2, 3 or 4 sidewalks and pathways.

How can you help as a resident?

Shovel sidewalk and driveway snow into yards and boulevard areas whenever possible, instead of into alleys and roads. This will also help your neighbours not to get stuck when snow starts accumulating.
Be prepared for winter conditions. Winter in southern Alberta is always going to present hazardous conditions without much warning.
Wear appropriate winter footwear and clothing when going outside. Winter boots will provide traction on snow or ice while bright or reflective clothing will increase visibility.
Please be patient - we are working as fast as possible to get designated areas cleared for public safety.
Try some winter walking tips to lower your risk of falling

Our operators are courteous and safety minded but you can help us by staying clear of snow removal equipment as winter conditions bring poor visibility.

Where does snow clearing not occur?

Pathways in small neighbourhood parks are not cleared. There are more than 260 kilometres of pathways and trails in the City of Lethbridge, and due to equipment and employee resourcing, we are unable to clear all pathways all the time. The priorities listed above allow us to manage our pathway system the best way we can.
Limestone and shale trails are not cleared to avoid scraping gravel off the trails.
Public walkways that typically run between houses are not cleared because vehicle access may be restricted and because the grading of these areas doesn't lend itself well to plowing: thaw/freeze cycles could create ice hazards.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the definition of a snow event?

A snow event can include a new snowfall or drifting snow that accumulates on the city's sidewalks or pathways.

When do crews clear snow from sidewalks and pathways?

Our sidewalk and pathway snow removal crews work 7 days a week and start at 6 a.m. to maintain safe pathways and sidewalks for you.

Who is responsible for clearing snow around schools?

Our crews remove snow from all green space areas around schools. The schools are responsible for snow and ice control in front of schools and near their entrances.

Who is responsible for snow removal adjacent to private property?

Residents and business owners are responsible for snow removal adjacent to their property. We ask that you shovel any snow onto the boulevard to keep Lethbridge on the move.

Does the City of Lethbridge supply sand for icy sidewalks?

Yes, the City of Lethbridge does supply sand for icy sidewalks. Public sand can be found at the North Lethbridge Recycling Station and at the West Lethbridge Recycling Station - please bring your own bucket and shovel.

Does the City monitor sidewalks and pathways after snowfalls?

In addition to snow removal, crews also do snow and ice checks to ensure that pathways and sidewalks remain safe during freeze/thaw cycles.

What equipment does the City have to clear sidewalks and pathways?

7 - 4 wheel drive mowers equipped with plow blades, brushes and snow blower attachments.
6 UTV Trucksters equipped with plow blades & sanders.
3 skid steers that can be equipped with a plow blade, bucket or snow blower.
1 small tractor with plow blade.
10 backpack snow blowers.
Various trucks with trailers as required.

For more information

Report a problem like graffiti or garbage
Online: Submit a service request
Phone: 311 or 403-320-3111 (if outside of Lethbridge)