Code Reminder: 640.02 Emergency Snow and Ice Control Operations and Emergency Parking Regulations

 Subd.1 The Public Works Director will decide when to begin snow or ice control operations. The criteria for that decision are:                   

• A. Snow accumulation of two (2) inches or more;

• B. Drifting of snow that causes problems for travel;

• C. Icy conditions which seriously affect travel; and

• D. Time of snowfall in relationship to heavy use of streets.

Subd.2 The Public Works Director has ultimate authority in declaring a Snow Emergency. 

Subd.3 Snow and ice control operations are expensive and involve the use of limited personnel and equipment. Consequently, snowplowing operations will not generally be conducted for snowfall of less than two (2) inches. Snow Emergencies will be in effect from 12:00 am – 6:00 am, unless otherwise notified.

Subd.4 For the purpose of this section, the term "Emergency" shall mean any condition upon any public street, including the presence of snow, freezing rain, sleet, ice or other phenomenon, which condition creates or is likely to create any hazardous road condition or impedes or is likely to impede the free movement of traffic, when such conditions have been declared by the Public Works Department. Upon the existence of an emergency as defined herein, the City shall notify the radio station KBEW and request that such media cooperate with the City in giving notice of such emergency to the community. This information will also be posted on the City website, announced on MyBlueEarth, and shared on the City's social media platforms. The emergency regulations set forth below shall become effective one (1) hour after such notice has been given by the City to such news media. If an emergency is declared the day before for a set time the next day, the emergency will become effective as stated in the notification.

Subd. 5. During an emergency, it is unlawful for any person, as a driver or operator of a vehicle or trailer, or as the registered owner of such vehicle or trailer, to park, stop or leave standing, or cause, allow or permit to be parked, stopped or left standing, whether knowingly or unknowingly, any such vehicle upon any City Street until the street is plowed curb to curb.

Subd. 6. From November 15 until April 15 off-street parking in yards and boulevards is permitted.

640.16 Penalties

Subd.1 The penalty for the first violation of the on-street snow emergency parking regulations is a written warning.

Subd. 2 The penalty for the second violation of the on-street snow emergency parking ban is a $50.00 ticket.

Subd. 3 The penalty for the third and each subsequent violation of the on-street snow emergency parking ban is a $50.00 ticket and towing the vehicle. The owner is responsible for towing costs.