Winter weather parking bans are called when 7 cm of snow or significant amounts of freezing rain are anticipated. When the roads are clear of vehicles, the Roads and Parking Services team can clear the snow from the roads efficiently, and keep the roads open wider. Bans can be called anytime between November 15 and April 1.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Even if the plow has passed the parking ban is still in effect. You risk getting a ticket if you park on the street. If you moved your vehicle to shovel your driveway, you may still get a ticket. Unfortunately it is not always possible to determine ownership of an unattended vehicle and whether the owner has parked for the day or just temporarily.
During a winter parking ban, parking on-street is not permitted even if the plow has already cleared snow in a specific area. It is sometimes necessary for snow operations staff to do additional passes of the area, including salting, which requires that streets remain free of parked vehicles to ensure effective clearing for public safety.
When will residents know if a ban is called?
This year, the City’s Roads Team will be calling winter weather parking bans at set times, except in the event of unexpected severe weather.
- Overnight winter parking bans will run from 7pm to 7 am, and will be announced by 9 am
- Daytime parking bans will run from 10am to 7 pm, and will be announced to residents by 3:30 pm the day prior
How you can stay informed
There are many ways that you can stay informed about winter weather parking bans:
- Sign up to the Winter Parking Alerts eSubscription and get winter parking updates sent straight to your email
- Follow the City on Twitter (@ottawacity) or on Facebook to get the latest news and updates
- Download the City of Ottawa app for your Android or Apple device and turn on notifications
- Visit the winter maintenance page on ottawa.ca/winter for regular updates about our winter operations and parking bans
Business area exemptions
Shoppers and diners need not fret – you can still visit your favourite local businesses, even when a parking ban is called. You can visit ottawa.ca to view maps of business areas that are exempt from winter parking bans. Just be sure to follow all posted signage and pay requirements.
This winter make sure you’re not caught unprepared. Be in the know and help make snowy weather easier for everyone! You can learn more about the City’s winter operations by visiting ottawa.ca/winter
