Five Things to Know When It Snows


November 12-18 is Winter Preparedness Week! Keeping our streets and sidewalks safe and accessible for all community members is a cooperative effort. Watch the City’s video or see the information below for a quick refresher on snow parking restrictions, shoveling guidelines and other helpful winter tips.

Review Snow Parking Restrictions


In the event of accumulated snowfall, the City may enforce temporary parking restrictions.

  • A Snow Route Parking Ban (11 p.m. to 6 a.m.) affecting main streets may be declared after two inches or more of snow.
  • A Snow Emergency (8 a.m. to 6 p.m.) affecting side streets may be declared after four inches or more of snow. During a Snow Emergency, parking is not allowed on the odd-numbered side of the street on odd dates, and parking is not allowed on the even-numbered side of the street on even dates.

During a Snow Route Parking Ban or Snow Emergency, parking on the street is illegal for the duration of the time indicated on the street signs posted at the beginning and end of each block, as plowing and salting operations may require return visits by City trucks. 

Sign Up for Snow Parking Notifications


To make winter easier, the City offers a variety of convenient ways to be notified when snow parking restrictions are in effect:

Help Keep Sidewalks Clear

Shoveling your sidewalk is the neighborly thing to do! Make Evanston safe for everyone by clearing ice and snow from the sidewalks around your property. Please clear a path at least 36 inches wide to allow everyone to use the sidewalk, including children, those with disabilities, and the elderly.

Need help or want to assist others? The City’s Snow Shoveling Program connects seniors and people with disabilities with volunteers who are willing to provide snow shoveling services.

 

Prevent Frozen Water Pipes


During cold weather, take precautions to prevent water pipes from freezing:

  • Insulate/wrap pipes
  • Keep cabinet doors open overnight under sinks
  • Run water at a small trickle
  • Set heat at 55 degrees or higher

Make Fire Hydrants Visible


Seconds matter in an emergency. Help save precious time and assist first responders by clearing snow from around fire hydrants to keep them accessible and visible. Thank you for your cooperation!

Prevent Frozen Water Pipes


During cold weather, take precautions to prevent water pipes from freezing:

  • Insulate/wrap pipes
  • Keep cabinet doors open overnight under sinks
  • Run water at a small trickle
  • Set heat at 55 degrees or higher

Make Fire Hydrants Visible


Seconds matter in an emergency. Help save precious time and assist first responders by clearing snow from around fire hydrants to keep them accessible and visible. Thank you for your cooperation!

Prevent Frozen Water Pipes


During cold weather, take precautions to prevent water pipes from freezing:

  • Insulate/wrap pipes
  • Keep cabinet doors open overnight under sinks
  • Run water at a small trickle
  • Set heat at 55 degrees or higher

Make Fire Hydrants Visible


Seconds matter in an emergency. Help save precious time and assist first responders by clearing snow from around fire hydrants to keep them accessible and visible. Thank you for your cooperation!