Please remember that the city prohibits residents from parking vehicles on city streets after 2 inches of snow has fallen so that Public Works crews can clear and salt the streets effectively and efficiently. Read ordinance 73.09 Snow Emergencies for more detail.

Things To Keep In Mind 

Vehicles must remain off city streets for 12 hours after the end of snowfall or risk being towed. If your vehicle is towed, you could face fines of more than $250. No warnings will be issued. 

Be patient as the plows make their way through town: main roads, side streets, courts. Please keep in mind that several state and local agencies other than the city are responsible for snow removal on some roads.

Pushing snow into the street is hazardous. Do not shovel or blow snow from driveways into the streets as this can cause a hazard and is also against city ordinance. When snow is shoveled into the street, the plow is likely to push it right back in front of the driveway. Although the city's plows may leave some snow across driveway entrances, they try to keep it to a minimum. The Public Works Department will not remove snow from driveway entrances. The diagram below demonstrates the appropriate way to remove snow from your driveway so you do not get plowed in.

If your mailbox is damaged, call the Public Works Department. If a city plow physically strikes and damages your mailbox, Public Works will replace it with a standard mailbox as long as it was located in accordance with post office and city standards. Incorrectly located mailboxes knocked down from the weight of snow rolling off the plows is the responsibility of the resident to replace it. Read the mailbox installation and maintenance standards. 

The Public Works Department is not responsible for decorative or brick mailboxes. If a decorative or brick mailbox is struck by a plow, a resident may be eligible for a reimbursement up to $40 from the city. 

Contact the Public Works Department to request an inspection of your damaged mailbox at 708-535-4090.

Clear the hydrants on your block, if you are able to so, for better accessibility for the fire department. 

Consider helping neighbors who are unable to shovel snow from public sidewalks, their walkways and driveways, and check on them after the storm to make sure they are okay.  Remind children who are playing outside in the snow to watch out for plows and other emergency vehicles. 

Warming centers are available across Cook County during periods of extreme cold.  Find a warming center.  

For the latest information, follow the city on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.  Also, sign up to receive emergency notifications from the city.