Snow & Ice Removal Standard Operating Procedures

Salting Operations
The Village’s snow and de-icing crews are on alert and standing by when a minor (dusting to less than 2 inches) snow or ice event is forecast. Once the precipitation, snow or ice, begins to accumulate salt trucks begin applying salt to the primary/main traffic routes. These are dealt with first for safety issues due to higher speed limits and heavier traffic volume. We try to clear these routes before rush hour whenever possible. The timing of the storm can cause delays for the plowing crews, residents, and normal traffic flow. Upon completion of the primary roads, salting of major collector streets begins; these are main streets through subdivisions, roads that link with main roads, and streets with schools. We then begin salting of residential side streets, dead ends, and cul-de-sacs. A simple salting operation can take four to six hours.

Plowing Operations
When snow reaches two or more inches, the Village begins a plowing operation. A secondary group is called out to help with the plowing in addition to the salt shift. As salt trucks continue to work on plowing their primary and arterial streets, other snowplow trucks begin to work on side streets. Alleys, cul-de-sacs, and dead ends are done towards the end of the storm due to low traffic volume. The last task is pushing back corners, cleaning up areas where cars may have been parked, and one last check through the entire route to re-salt and plow where necessary. This operation will last about 14 to 18 hours after the last of the snow has fallen. It is important to remember that excessive amounts of snow, extreme drop in temperatures, heavy wet snow, blowing and drifting snow, and equipment breakdowns will increase this time frame.

Follow the Village's Public Works Department on Facebook (Plainfield, IL Public Works) and/or Twitter (@PlainfieldILPW) for the latest snowplowing updates. If you have any questions, please contact the Public Works Department at (815) 436-3577 or (815) 230-2031.

Helpful Shoveling Hints

• Shovel driveway aprons only after the roadway is completely cleared. This will eliminate the need to shovel them more than once.
• Pile all the snow away from the edge of the road, on the left side of the driveway as you face the house. Should the snowplow pass by again, after you have shoveled, this will prevent the plow from pushing the snow back into your driveway.
• Do not push snow into or across the street. This may result in that same snow being deposited in your neighbor's driveway, if the snowplow should make an additional pass.
• Clear snow and ice from the walk adjacent to your property. This makes pedestrian travel safer and easier.
• Clear snow away from fire hydrants to permit easy access, in case of an emergency.