Snow & Ice Control Policy

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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.


Public Consultation

The District is inviting community feedback to help guide the direction of the policy. Specifically, the District are seeking input on:

  • What would you like to see included in a Snow & Ice Control Policy for Tofino?
  • Are there areas in town where winter conditions have made travel difficult in past years?
  • What are your expectations for snow and ice removal on sidewalks and the Multi-Use Path (MUP)?
  • What are your thoughts on the role of property owners in clearing sidewalks or pathways?
  • Do you have any concerns or suggestions about how snow and ice response could be improved?

Residents are encouraged to provide their input using the feedback tool below.

All feedback will be compiled and presented to Council for consideration prior to the adoption of the policy.

Public Consultation Period: July 2-31, 2025

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.


Public Consultation

The District is inviting community feedback to help guide the direction of the policy. Specifically, the District are seeking input on:

  • What would you like to see included in a Snow & Ice Control Policy for Tofino?
  • Are there areas in town where winter conditions have made travel difficult in past years?
  • What are your expectations for snow and ice removal on sidewalks and the Multi-Use Path (MUP)?
  • What are your thoughts on the role of property owners in clearing sidewalks or pathways?
  • Do you have any concerns or suggestions about how snow and ice response could be improved?

Residents are encouraged to provide their input using the feedback tool below.

All feedback will be compiled and presented to Council for consideration prior to the adoption of the policy.

Public Consultation Period: July 2-31, 2025

  • 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.