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:

• Sign up for text/email Snow Alerts online
• Text COE SNOW to 468311 to sign up for text message alerts
• Text SNOW to 847-448-4311 for an automated message available 24/7
• Call the Snow Hotline at 847-864-SNOW (7669) for a recorded message
• Follow the City of Evanston on Twitter or Facebook
• Check the City’s website
• Tune in to City Channel 16
• Tune in to Evanston Radio AM 1650
• Listen for the City’s emergency sirens
• Call/text 847-448-4311 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday. Hours of operation will be extended during snow events.

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!