Norfolk County prepares for winter weather

As winter weather approaches, Norfolk County is ready to respond to snow, ice, and cold conditions on its more than 4,200 kilometers of roads.

Stay informed

Residents interested in staying informed about snow event declarations, service disruptions, including facility closures and recreation program changes, and extreme cold weather alerts can subscribe to email updates at norfolkcounty.ca/Subscribe. Residents can also follow Norfolk County on Facebook and Instagram.

Significant weather events

Under normal conditions, roads are cleared according to timelines and priorities set by Ontario’s Minimum Maintenance Standards.  
 
When severe weather is forecasted or occurring, County officials may declare a significant weather event, which suspends standard timelines and signals that hazardous conditions exist. Residents should avoid unnecessary travel during these events. 

Parking 

Norfolk County’s Parking Bylaw requires parked vehicles to be moved off the road during and after snowfalls, winter storms, or when a significant weather event is declared to allow Norfolk’s snowplows and sanders to clear the entire road surface and apply salt or sand, as required. 
 
Vehicles parked on roads when winter weather is expected may be ticketed and/or towed at the owner's expense, regardless of actual snowfall volume. The fine is $75, and towing charges can cost several hundred dollars more.  

Windrows 

Property owners or occupants are responsible for clearing snow windrows, the snow that can accumulate at the end of driveways after plows clear the road. Norfolk County does not clear snow windrows.  

Sidewalks 

In accordance with County by-laws, property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from sidewalks beside their property by noon the day after a storm.  

Norfolk County is responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to municipally owned property, four-lane roads, and certain parks and facilities.  

Trails and pathways are not maintained in winter and are used at residents’ own risk. 

How residents can do their part 

1. Allowing time for cleanup after storms before contacting ServiceNorfolk
2. Clearing snow and ice from sidewalks by noon the day after a storm
3. Keeping vehicles off streets and sidewalks during snow events
4. Avoiding pushing snow onto roads
5. Staying clear of snow clearing equipment for safety 

Residents with questions about winter roads and snow clearing are encouraged to visit norfolkcounty.ca/winter or call ServiceNorfolk at 519-426-5870 or 226-NORFOLK, extension 0.  

Stay informed about Norfolk County news 

Subscribe to the latest Norfolk County news, notices, community events, Council decisions, and more at MyNews at norfolkcounty.ca/mynews.