Snow & Ice Control Policy

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THIS PROJECT IS COMPLETE


Overview

Tofino’s winter weather may be mild compared to other parts of Canada, but snow and ice can still create serious safety concerns for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. In response, the District of Tofino is developing a formal Snow & Ice Control Policy that outlines how municipal infrastructure, such as roads, sidewalks, and the Multi-Use Path (MUP) will be maintained during snow or icy conditions.

The policy aims to enhance clarity around winter response efforts, prioritize public safety, and optimize the use of District resources during snowfall and icy weather events.


Key Objectives

This proposed policy is intended to:

  • Ensure Public Safety: Provide safe passage for vehicles and pedestrians during winter conditions.

  • Define Priorities: Establish clear service levels for roads, sidewalks, and the MUP, based on route importance and public use.

  • Clarify Roles: Distinguish the responsibilities of the District and property owners for winter maintenance.

  • Improve Communication: Provide a transparent framework for how and when snow and ice control activities will occur.

  • Support Operational Readiness: Align with standard operating procedures and ensure staff training is in place.

THIS PROJECT IS COMPLETE


Overview

Tofino’s winter weather may be mild compared to other parts of Canada, but snow and ice can still create serious safety concerns for drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists. In response, the District of Tofino is developing a formal Snow & Ice Control Policy that outlines how municipal infrastructure, such as roads, sidewalks, and the Multi-Use Path (MUP) will be maintained during snow or icy conditions.

The policy aims to enhance clarity around winter response efforts, prioritize public safety, and optimize the use of District resources during snowfall and icy weather events.


Key Objectives

This proposed policy is intended to:

  • Ensure Public Safety: Provide safe passage for vehicles and pedestrians during winter conditions.

  • Define Priorities: Establish clear service levels for roads, sidewalks, and the MUP, based on route importance and public use.

  • Clarify Roles: Distinguish the responsibilities of the District and property owners for winter maintenance.

  • Improve Communication: Provide a transparent framework for how and when snow and ice control activities will occur.

  • Support Operational Readiness: Align with standard operating procedures and ensure staff training is in place.

  • Report to Council: September 16, 2025

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    At the September 16, 2025, meeting, Council adopted the proposed Snow and Ice Control Policy. This policy establishes a transparent, consistent approach to how snow and ice will be managed on the District-owned roads, sidewalks, and Multi-Use Path (MUP).

    Key Takeaways

    • Road Priorities – Critical routes adjacent to the hospital, fire hall, RCMP, school, Municipal Office, senior centre, and daycare are cleared first, followed by collector roads and then local roads.
    • Sidewalks – The District will clear priority sidewalks, but residents and businesses are still responsible for sidewalks next to their properties.
    • Multi-Use Pathway (MUP) – The District will take over responsibility for snow and ice clearing on the MUP. Property owners are no longer required to maintain adjacent sections.

    Next Steps

    • The amended Public Property Use Bylaw will proceed through Council’s bylaw adoption process.
    • District staff will prepare standard operating procedures and update public information ahead of the winter season.
    • Annual reviews will ensure routes and priorities remain aligned with community needs.

    More Information

    For further details on the policy, watch the Report to Council below and/or access the documents on this page.

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    Watch the Report to Council. The report begins at approximately the 26-minute mark.


  • Report to Committee of the Whole: June 2, 2025

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    At the June 2, 2025, Committee of the Whole meeting, staff introduced the District of Tofino Snow & Ice Control Policy to Council. Staff were authorized to draft the policy for Council's consideration.

    Watch the presentation below. The presentation begins at approximately 1 hour 33 minutes.