Snow Storage and Drainage: Plan Where the Meltwater Goes

A snow pile is also a future source of water. Before choosing its location, trace where meltwater would travel across the site. A pile uphill from an entrance may repeatedly wet a cleared path. Mark nearby drains and ask the operator to keep their locations visible throughout the event.

Leave doors, hydrants, loading areas and accessible routes unobstructed. Check sightlines at driveways and pedestrian crossings. Snow storage should not create a new obstruction for people who cannot step over a windrow. Walk the proposed route after the first service to see how the arrangement works in practice.

A small corner may fill early in the season. Agree a secondary storage area and ask how additional handling or hauling would be quoted. Do not assume removal from the property is included in a clearing contract. Document who can approve extra work so the operator does not have to guess during a storm.

Look for standing water and the routes it crosses. Mark recurring trouble spots for a discussion with the property manager and provider. If drainage infrastructure appears blocked or defective, arrange an appropriate assessment. Changing an ice-control product will not correct an underlying drainage problem.