TERRACE, B.C. – As heavy snow and freezing rain threaten the Skeena region, the City of Terrace has activated its official Snow and Ice Control Policy (Policy 43) — the rulebook that determines which roads get plowed first and why.
The policy is designed to keep people moving safely with limited crews and equipment. City officials stress that winter safety isn’t just about plows — it also depends heavily on residents following parking rules and adjusting their driving and walking habits during storms.
Here’s what Terrace residents need to know.
Which Roads Get Plowed First? (And Which Ones Wait)
Snow removal in Terrace follows a strict priority system focused on safety and traffic flow, not first-come, first-served.
Top Priority Routes
These routes are cleared first and crews may stay on them until conditions improve:
- Steep Hills
(Including Kalum, Lanfear, Park, and Birch Streets) - Hospital and School Areas
- Downtown Core
- Arterial Roads
(Main routes connecting neighbourhoods) - Residential Streets
- Cul-de-sacs
- Alleys
Sidewalks are cleared when staff and equipment are available, meaning they may take longer after major storms.
How Downtown Snow Clearing Works
Clearing snow downtown is more complex due to traffic, parking, and drainage needs.
When It Happens
- Most downtown snow removal occurs overnight, typically between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- Crews usually wait until the storm and emergency conditions have passed.
How It’s Done
- Graders push snow toward the center of the road.
- Loaders clear intersections and access points.
- Snow is then hauled away to designated snow dumps.
Sanding & Salting
- Used sparingly
- Limited to hills, intersections, and corners
- Only applied when icy conditions create a significant safety hazard
Winter Parking Rules: What Residents Must Know
To keep plows moving efficiently, Terrace enforces strict winter parking rules under its Street and Traffic Bylaw.
No Street Parking (Winter-Long Rule)
- Parking is prohibited on all streets, boulevards, alleys, and highways
- Applies November 15 to April 1
- Vehicles blocking snow removal may be towed
Driveway Windrows
- Snow pushed across driveways by plows will not be removed by City crews
- This policy helps keep plowing timely and cost-effective
No Dumping Snow Onto City Property
- Residents may not push or shovel snow from private property onto streets or sidewalks
- Doing so can block drainage and traffic
- Fines may apply
Help for Seniors and Residents with Disabilities
The City of Terrace offers financial assistance for eligible residents who need help clearing their driveways.
What’s Offered
- 50% rebate, up to $250 per winter
- Applies to costs from hiring a private snow removal service
Who Qualifies
- Property must be owned and occupied by the applicant
- Applicant must be:
- 65 years or older, or
- Permanently disabled
- No able-bodied person under 65 may live at the property
Applications and full details are available through the City of Terrace website.
Terrace’s snow removal plan is built around safety, efficiency, and cooperation. Knowing which routes are prioritized — and following winter parking rules — helps crews do their job faster and keeps the city safer for everyone during extreme winter weather.
Stay informed, plan ahead, and drive carefully.
