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Snow RemovalSnow Removal PolicyPlowing begins when the snow accumulates to approximately two inches. Major arteries will receive top priority, followed by the collector streets, and then the minor subdivision streets and cul-de-sacs.
Snow PreparationSalt brine is a combination of rock salt and mostly water. A computer controlled brine production mixer is used to mix rock salt and water until the brine contains 23.3% salt. The mixer can fill the brine storage tank or directly into the truck-mounted sprayer. The salt brine is applied to the pavement at the rate of 50 gallons per lane mile. Pre-wetting roads with salt brine before an expected snow storm or freeze is far more efficient because the brine sticks to the road. The moisture also causes salt to work more effectively at preventing ice from forming in the first place. The use of salt brine allows the city to keep roads clear while using less salt, resulting in significant financial savings as well as protecting the environment. Salt brine will be sprayed on all streets during regular work hours in advance of a forecasted snow fall. The brine provides a barrier between the snow and the pavement. This brine aids in the plowing efforts by preventing the snow or ice from adhering to the pavement. Salt brine will not be applied if rain or freezing rain is predicted. Instead, deicing salt will be spread about 4 hours in advance of the expected start of the freezing rain. Snow Emergency ParkingDuring the winter storm emergency, crews will operate around the clock until the storm ends and all streets are cleared. You can assist by remembering Ballwin's City Ordinance 20-02. This Ordinance prohibits the parking of vehicles on City streets when the City is under a snow emergency. A snow emergency occurs whenever snow accumulates to two inches or more or during freezing rain or ice. This prohibition is in effect until the street has been cleared for emergency vehicles. Please be aware of winter weather forecasts of snow or freezing rain, and remove your cars from the street. Parked vehicles impede snow and ice removal efforts, and the Police Department will strictly enforce this ordinance. Vehicles parked in violation of this section shall be removed in accordance with section 15-277. Please advise your family and guests of this prohibition. Your cooperation is solicited and appreciated. Shoveling DrivewaysAs you clear your driveway of snow, keep in mind that the snow plow truck pushes snow onto the grass and into driveways. With over 10,000 driveways, City crews are unable to remove snow windrows left by the plow. This cannot be prevented, but you can minimize this problem by clearing a 15 feet long area of the curbline in advance of the driveway. Most, but not all, of the snow from the plow will be deposited in the clear area. Your understanding is appreciated. Snow plowed from roads could end up blocking private driveways for some time. Ballwin Public Works recognizes the inconvenience this causes. To reduce the amount of snow that might block your driveway, shovel an open area along the shoulder at the entrance (see illustration). Plow blades will then push snow into the area just before your driveway, leaving a much smaller amount in front of it.
Questions? Call (636) 227-9000 to speak to the Public Works Department.
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