TO REQUEST SUPPORT YOU MUST FILL OUT OUR ONLINE SUPPORT FORM.
TO REQUEST SUPPORT YOU MUST FILL OUT OUR ONLINE SUPPORT FORM.
How to Prepare Your Driveway for Winter (Northern Snow Customer Guide)
November 29, 2025
Link to Customer Handbook
Preparing your driveway before the snow begins is one of the best ways to ensure safe, clean, and efficient service throughout the winter. At Northern Snow, our operators rely on clear access and obstruction-free driveways — especially during nighttime storms, heavy accumulation, and back-to-back events.
Here’s a simple guide, based directly on the Northern Snow Customer Handbook, to help you get your property winter-ready.
1. Keep Vehicles Off the Driveway During Service
To ensure a full, edge-to-edge cleanout:
Park vehicles in the garage when possible
If parking outside, park them side-by-side or flush to one side
Keep the end of the driveway clear
Avoid parking in a way that blocks the path of the tractor and blower
A clear driveway allows operators to clean the full surface and avoid leaving snow around parked vehicles.
2. Remove Temporary Items & Obstructions
Before snow events begin, remove anything that can be buried or hit by snow equipment. This includes:
Garbage and recycling bins
Toys
Garden décor
Cords or hoses
Seasonal items
Portable basketball nets
Planters or lightweight objects
If something is left in the path of the blower, it can be damaged, buried, or cause damage to your property.
3. Mark or Identify Permanent Obstacles
For any fixed items close to your driveway:
AC units
Cement steps
Retaining walls
Utility boxes
Fence lines
Make sure they are visible and not hidden by debris, snow, or overgrown foliage. Operators need to clearly see these structures during nighttime operations.
4. Ensure Overhead & Side Clearance
Tractors require safe entry and exit to your driveway. Please:
Maintain at least 12 feet of overhead clearance
Trim low-hanging branches
Cut back any shrubs or vegetation narrowing the entrance
This helps operators maneuver safely and reduces the risk of incidental contact.
5. Keep Garbage Bins Clear on Pickup Days
If garbage day overlaps with a snow event:
Keep bins away from the driveway
Leave at least 9 feet of clearance on each side
Do not place bins at the end of the driveway
Bins can block service or become buried under snow if left in the plow path.
6. Shovel Walkways, Steps & Garage Lips Into the Driveway
Our tractors cannot enter within 2–3 feet of structures. To help us clear effectively:
Shovel snow from porches, walkways, and garage lips into the driveway
Avoid piling snow against walls or doors
Keep your garage entrance clear of items and clutter
This allows the tractor and blower to pull the snow out and complete a clean finish.
7. Notify Us of Any Changes to Your Layout
If anything changes on your property, please let us know so we can update your operator notes:
New vehicles
Trailers or storage units
New fencing or curbs
Adjusted parking patterns
Additions or renovations
Landscaping changes
Accurate routing information ensures safer and more consistent service.
SNOW BLOWING
SIMPLIFIED