Snow Removal

Snow Plowing

Our team prioritizes clearing major streets before moving on to locals, dead ends, alleys, and cul-de-sacs. Our goal is to have major streets clear within 24 hours and all streets clear within 48 hours of the end of snowfall. During severe winter storms or extended snowfall, these timeframes may be delayed. We appreciate the community’s patience and cooperation during these events.

On-Street Parking

Vehicles parked on the street can make snow removal more difficult and time-consuming. City ordinance restricts parking on city streets between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., unless otherwise posted. Following these restrictions helps crews clear streets more effectively and safely.

Non-City Streets

Not all roads in the area are maintained by the City of Kalamazoo:

• Streets outside Kalamazoo city limits are plowed by the Kalamazoo County Road Commission
• Highways and ramps are plowed by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT)
• Private streets are not plowed by the City

Keeping Your Driveway Clear

As plows pass, they may push snow across driveways that have already been cleared. Shoveling the area along the roadway on the oncoming traffic side of your driveway can help reduce additional buildup. If you can safely do so, helping neighbors, especially older adults or those with mobility challenges, makes a meaningful difference during winter weather.

Report Missed Snow Plowing

Clearing Sidewalks

Keeping sidewalks clear of snow and ice is essential for the safety and mobility of everyone in our community, including students, pedestrians, transit riders, older adults, and people with disabilities.

City Ordinance §33-18 requires property owners to:

• Remove snow and ice from sidewalks within 48 hours of accumulation
• Clear the full width of the sidewalk to expose bare pavement
• Apply sand, salt, or similar materials to reduce slipperiness
• Ensure snow and ice are not pushed or deposited onto public streets, alleys, sidewalks, or crosswalks

Depositing snow and ice into the street or public right-of-way is a municipal civil infraction and may result in a $100 fine plus court-imposed costs. If property owners do not follow the ordinance, the City may remove the snow and ice and bill the property owner for the cost plus an administrative fee.

Help Protect Your Neighborhood

Community members can also help by:

• Clearing areas around fire hydrants to support emergency response
• Checking on neighbors who may need assistance with snow removal

Community participation plays a vital role in keeping Kalamazoo accessible and connected throughout the winter.

City Sidewalks 

The City is responsible for maintaining approximately 19 miles of sidewalks along City-owned and publicly maintained properties. In 2024, City staff updated internal processes and capacity to improve winter sidewalk maintenance. Keeping these sidewalks clear will continue to be a snow removal priority.

2024-2025 Sidewalk Clearing Pilot Program

The City is continuing its pilot program to clear approximately 14 additional miles of sidewalk along high-pedestrian and transit corridors, including:

• W. Michigan Avenue
• Douglas Avenue
• Westnedge Avenue
• Park Street.

This pilot focuses on improving winter mobility in areas with high foot traffic and transit use.

Report Uncleared Sidewalks

Thank You!

We appreciate your role in keeping sidewalks and streets safe, accessible, and connected throughout the winter. When snow and ice are managed consistently, it helps residents of all ages and abilities stay mobile and reach work, school, services, and each other safely.