40% of Canada’s territory is located in the Arctic, so snow removal has long been more than a chore in the country, turning into a national sport. However, given the diverse climatic conditions over the 6,000 kilometers separating the west and east of the giant country, there is no single approach to solving the problems caused by winter precipitation. While Ottawa receives an average of 235 mm of snow annually, Vancouver, located on the Pacific coast, receives only 48 mm. Accordingly, the scale of the “snow problems” is different.
The improvement of settlements in Canada is the responsibility of local authorities, which pay for it from their own funds. If we talk about the largest city, Toronto, the 115 mm of snow that covers its streets every year is removed by utilities quite quickly, but only after heavy snowfall. If the thickness of the snow cover does not exceed 2 cm (8 cm in November and April), snowplows do not even go out. The city authorities have developed detailed instructions for snow removal, including the amount of precipitation and the time allotted for this.
You can see how snow is removed from the streets in this country in this video. Something incredible for Ukraine
However, the city’s utilities are only responsible for clearing snow from roadways and sidewalks on busy streets. Residents and entrepreneurs of small streets have to clean the sidewalks themselves. In this case, a fine of USD 100 to 2000 may be imposed for improper cleaning. Ice control products such as salt and sand are often provided free of charge.
This approach is explained by the need to save municipal funds. For example, the winter budget of the Department of Public Works in Windsor, a Canadian town of 200,000 people located in a similar climate zone to Toronto, is $4 million, while in Toronto, a city of 2.6 million people with a much more complex infrastructure, it will cost at least $50 million a year.
At the same time, Canadians, known for their good manners and openness, are very inclined to help each other. That is why in winter, in many Maple Leaf communities, groups of so-called “snow angels” are formed to help clear sidewalks for those who are physically unable to do so: the elderly, the sick, etc. Often, city administrations encourage these actions in every way possible. For example, in Calgary, members of such volunteer groups receive letters of appreciation from the mayor’s office and free parking vouchers.
