Owen Sound moves downtown snow removal from daytime for safety as crews tackle record amounts

A residents tries to clear heavy snowfall from a vehicle in Owen Sound, Ont. following record accumulations in 2025. (Owen Sound Police Service)

Owen Sound is shifting its downtown snow removal efforts to overnight operations in response to safety concerns. Beginning late Sunday, residents are asked to remove their vehicles from downtown streets to prevent service disruptions.

The City initially planned to clear excess snow during the day using rolling road closures, but, to reduce potential interference between pedestrians and snow-clearing crews, officials have opted for nighttime work instead.

As a result, the scheduled road closures in the River District for Thursday morning have been cancelled.

The City says the change will improve safety and accessibility, while also minimizing disruptions to businesses and traffic flow during the day.

“This work exceeds the routine winter maintenance of plowing streets and sidewalks," the City stated. “[It] will ensure that roads and walkways remain clear for people, vehicles and emergency response.”

Parking Restrictions

To allow crews unobstructed access, vehicles must be removed from affected streets during overnight operations. Winter parking restrictions remain in place, and any vehicle blocking snow removal may be towed at the owner’s expense.

Drivers and pedestrians are urged to stay clear of active snow-clearing areas for safety. Signage will be in place to indicate where crews are working.

Heavy Snowfall Season

Owen Sound has already received more than 400 centimetres of snow this season - 122 per cent of its annual average.

Public Works staff remain on the road around the clock in rotating shifts to keep streets and sidewalks safe.