Snow removal parking ordinance begins Sunday in Idaho Falls

The following is a news release from the City of Idaho Falls.

IDAHO FALLS — Beginning Sunday, Nov. 15, the City of Idaho Falls will officially be in the winter season which means if more than 2 inches of snow accumulates on the roadway, a snow event is declared. Then, parking restrictions go into effect, and all cars must be moved off City streets so snowplows can clear them.

The parking restrictions help city crews safely and efficiently clear snow from about 802 lane miles within City limits. Vehicles parked on the street during a declared snow event may be cited or relocated to allow for snow removal.

Residents are strongly encouraged to sign up for snow removal alerts to know exactly when a snow event is declared and when parking restrictions go into effect.

How to stay informed:

When a snow event is declared, an alert banner will appear on the city’s website, and updates will be shared through local media, social media, text alerts and electronic message boards.

Text alerts: Text snowIF to 38276 to receive instant notifications directly from the City of Idaho Falls. Text alerts are the quickest and most reliable way to receive up-to-date information about snow events and parking restrictions.

Interactive snow removal map: This real-time tool shows when streets are scheduled to be plowed, when they were last plowed, and which zones are currently active. The interactive snow removal map is one of the best ways for residents to track progress and know what to expect during a snow event.

Website notifications: Visit www.idahofalls.gov and click the blue “Sign Up” button on the homepage to subscribe under the City of Idaho Falls News category.

Social media: Follow the City of Idaho Falls on Facebook and Instagram for updates and reminders.

Local media: Watch for updates from local media partners.

Snow removal zones, schedule and methods:

Idaho Falls’ snow removal operations are divided into three zones: Downtown, Zone A and Zone B.

Downtown is plowed overnight from midnight to 7 a.m. to minimize impacts on businesses and traffic.

Zone A, which includes the center of the city and narrower streets, is typically plowed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Zone B, which covers the majority of the city, is plowed around the clock (24/7) until snow removal is complete.

Plowing continues until all streets are cleared, and crews may return to zones if additional snowfall occurs. Within each zone, crews focus first on:

• Priority 1: Main routes

• Priority 2: High-traffic areas to maintain safe travel for the public

• Priority 3: Residential streets as conditions allow.

The exact starting point and order of plowing are determined by each storm’s unique conditions, including wind direction, temperature and snow accumulation patterns.

Not every street gets plowed the same way. Most of the time, City crews plow snow to the outside of the road, which is the quickest and most efficient approach. The snow is stored on the landscaping behind the curb or in the gutter. On some streets, though, there’s simply nowhere to put the snow, or drainage is a concern. On those streets, City crews plow snow to the center of the road and haul it away later.

Driving around snowplows:

It’s important to drive cautiously around snowplows. Drivers should never try to pass a snowplow. The road is safest behind snowplows. Passing a snowplow can put drivers in danger as they can lose traction or get hit by the snow and ice coming off the plow. Also, drivers should be mindful of the operator’s blind spots. If you can’t see the snowplow driver, they can’t see you.

For more details about snow removal policies, parking zones or to access the interactive snow removal map, visit the Snow Removal page or contact the Street Division at (208) 612-8490.