10 Tips For Surviving Winter Plow Season in Nashua

From your Public Works Department:


Winter can be an extremely difficult season regarding snow storms and plowing for both residents and city crews. In each instance both parties have to work together to get the best result. We sometimes forget how inconvenient a storm can be and get frustrated immediately after the first storm arrives. However if we can follow the ten tips below frustration can be avoided and winter will be over before you know it.  

Click here to view the city' Winter Snow Operations presentation to learn about the designated pre-salt routes, and the Six Stages of Snow Removal in the city of Nashua.

1. The City of Nashua does not always declare a snow emergency which means all vehicles must be removed from city streets. However there is no overnight parking in the city per ordinance (§ 320-78 – Article 13) enforced by the Police. If a citywide parking band is initiated parking is made available in the parking garages free of charge through the overnight until 7AM at which time parking will be enforced. Either way observing overnight parking restrictions in particular allows for the most effective plowing. 

2. When clearing the end of your driveway it might be less frustrating to do so if the plow has already come through. During an extended snow event it could be necessary for a plow to make multiple visits to your street. The trucks plow the snow to the sides and are not capable of avoiding driveways. 

3. When removing snow from your driveway at roads edge it is best to do so to the right if facing the street allowing the plow to move it past your driveway and not back in it. Please keep in mind that if you live on a one way street shovel to side with traffic flow. 

4. If using a hired contractor to clear your home or business please remind them of City Ordinance § 285-28 regarding placing snow in the street. It is unlawful to push or put any snow or ice into or across the right of way, street, lane or alley. Should snow be pushed into the street it becomes a hazard for drivers and congests what may have been a previously plowed street. In addition should a sidewalk cross through your driveway it should remain clear of snow banks.  

5. Residents are reminded to maintain a clear area for their mailbox in order for delivery. Should a mailbox become dislodged or broken during the storm call the Street Department 589-4750 for notification. 

6. Should a storm occur on your trash or recycling day be cognizant of the timing and try not to put out the barrels until absolutely necessary. In particular if you are unsure during holiday weeks or significant storms call the Solid Waste Department 589-3420 for pick-up schedules. 

7. Residents are encouraged to put out delineators marking the edge of their property by the street. Often times during a storm it is difficult for a snow plow operator to locate the edge when there is no curbing. If your lawn is disturbed or damaged please call the Street Department and a work order for repair will be put in for the following Spring. 

8. Do not allow children to play on or around the street during a storm and shortly thereafter. In addition please make sure that they do not build snow forts or tunnels around adjacent areas of the road in snow banks including driveway banks and cul-de-sac banks. Children’s toys and sledding areas should be kept far away from the street. 

9. If there is a fire hydrant located by your property you are encouraged to clear it ensuring access in case of an emergency. 

10. While the city has certain areas of sidewalks that it clears, both homeowners and business owners are encouraged to help clear sidewalks when they can.