Snow Removal Tips

Snow Removal Reminders

Helpful Snow Removal Tips from the City of Otsego
As winter approaches, Minnesotans will be gearing up with snow tires, shovels, and cozy layers. The City of Otsego Streets Department will be ready too! The plow routes will be updated, plows will be attached to the trucks, and salt and sand will have been ordered. Every winter, we stock up on about 900 tons of salt to keep steep hills, busy intersections, school crossings, and other tricky spots safe for everyone. This season, 13 plow drivers will be out on the roads, clearing 326 lane miles and 165 cul-de-sacs to help you get around safely.

Plowing begins when snowfall reaches 2 inches or when road conditions require it. Equipment dispatch depends on timing, intensity, forecast, personnel, and street priority. Our top priorities are trails, sidewalks along major streets, and school walking zones, which we aim to clear within 24 hours.

Here’s how residents can help make snow removal safer and more effective:

Mail & Paper Boxes:

• Mount at least 45 inches above street level.
• Only damage from direct plow impact is considered for repair or replacement—snow thrown from the plow is not.
• Keep the area around your mailbox clear to ensure timely delivery.

Mailbox Winter Prep Tips:

• Ensure the post is strong and stable
• Use durable materials like steel or heavy-duty plastic
• Add reflective markers for visibility
• Keep driveways clear of snow

Basketball Hoops
Remove portable basketball hoops and other equipment from streets and cul-de-sacs. This helps keep plow routes clear and reduces the risk of damage to both City equipment and personal property. 

Driveways & Private Property
Snow from driveways, sidewalks, or parking lots must not be pushed onto public streets or walkways. Doing so is illegal, slows plowing, and creates hazards.

Sidewalks
Residents must clear sidewalks next to their property within 24 hours. Help neighbors if they are away or need assistance. Clear sidewalks benefit everyone.

Right-of-Way Obstructions
Trees, landscaping, irrigation systems, and other items within the right-of-way are at risk of snow damage and will not be compensated. Keep them at least 10 feet behind the curb.

Trash & Recycling
Place containers in your driveway for pickup to prevent tipping during plowing. Proper placement allows crews to clear streets efficiently.

Fire Hydrants
Clear a three-foot radius around fire hydrants. Every second counts in an emergency.

Parking
Do not park on streets during snow events. Vehicles can block plows and slow clearing. Reminder: No street parking from November 1–April 30 between 2 a.m.–6 a.m. Violations may result in citations or towing.

Winter Driving
Maintain a safe distance from plows. Never pass on the right. Drive cautiously on curves, hills, bridges, and intersections.

Snowbanks & Safety
Discourage children from playing on snowbanks or near roads—they may be hidden from plow operators.

Salt Use & Environmental Impact
Salt and deicing chemicals can pollute water systems. The City limits salt use by plowing curb-to-curb, using liquid additives, and applying less granular salt.

Tips for Residents:

• Salt only when needed; sand works better below 15°F
• Sweep leftover salt after ice melts to reuse and protect waterways
• Shovel early and often to prevent ice buildup

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as our crews work to keep City streets and trails safe. Depending on storm severity, clearing may take hours or even days. Stay safe while driving and clearing snow this winter! 

County Roads

Wright County clears the snow and ice from the county roads within Otsego. For issues related to snow removal or maintenance on a county road, please call 763-682-7384.

City Roads

Email the Street Operations Manager with questions or concerns.