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With winter upon us, learn more about the city’s weather response program and city codes that may affect your property, and find weather-related tips, resources and updates at SpokaneValleyWA.gov/Weather.
Stay Informed
Utilize the following resources to stay informed and connected before, during and after weather-related events.
Report an Issue
Report a snow or ice concern by submitting a request for service through SVexpress 24/7. Visit SpokaneValleyWA.gov/443 or download the “SVexpress311” app at Apple or Google Play stores.
Ice and Snow Prevention
When snow, ice or frost is predicted, liquid deicer and, in some cases, salt is applied to bridges, arterial intersections, school zones, specific hillsides and critical intersections.
Snow Plowing
The City is stocked up on salt and liquid deicer, has prepared the 11 city snowplows to ensure they are ready to go and has contracted with residential plowing companies to respond when needed.
Be aware that the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) is responsible for I-90, SR-27 (Pines Road) and SR 290 (Trent Avenue) in Spokane Valley.
Snow Plowing Primary Routes. When the snow starts to fall, city road crews go into action. Primary travel routes, which include main arterial streets, critical intersections, bridges and hillside roads are plowed whenever there is snow accumulation. View map of primary snow plowing routes.
Snow Plowing Residential and Local Access Streets. Residential and local access streets are considered for plowing when the City receives snow which significantly reduces traffic flow. Please be patient as there are nearly 650 lane miles in the city, and it takes about 48 hours for crews to plow every street. Please help by giving plows plenty of room, moving vehicles, basketball hoops, etc., off streets and clearing sidewalks near your home or business. Track progress on the city’s snowplowing map, which is typically updated during business hours.
Be aware that the City utilizes contracted graders to plow residential areas, costing taxpayers less money than purchasing equipment and employing more people. However, the companies that the City contracts with do not own graders with gates. Therefore, we are unable to avoid creating berms when plowing residential streets.
Residents should not remove snow from their property or sidewalks into the city street per SVMC 8.25.030 and RCW 9A.84.030.
Sidewalk Snow Removal
Community members are responsible for clearing sidewalks near their home or business. Municipal Code 7.45 requires property owners located within Tier I priority areas to remove all accumulations of snow and ice exceeding three inches from adjacent public sidewalks within 48 hours of the end of the snow event. View the Tier 1 areas map, which includes commercially-zoned areas of the city and Safe Routes to School. If you are able, consider helping your neighbors and others who might need assistance. Learn more at SpokaneValleyWA.gov/323.
Be Prepared Before Weather Events
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Pre-Purchase Supplies. Have snow shovels or a working snow blower and consider buying salt or sand.
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Stock Up. Have plenty of food, water and medications for your family and pets.
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Prepare an Emergency Kit. Gather a radio, flashlight, extra batteries, first-aid kit, medication, emergency contact information, water, non-perishable food, warm clothes and blankets.
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Protect Your Pipes. Wrap outdoor and indoor pipes with tape, cloth or other insulating materials. Know where your water shut-offs are located in case of an emergency.
Be Safe During Weather Events
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Drive Less and Leave Room. In winter weather, stay home if you are able. If you must drive, drive slowly and leave room between you and the vehicle in front of you. When driving near snowplows, please leave room and approach with caution.
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Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning. Never use generators or gas or charcoal grills inside the house. Carbon monoxide levels build quickly and are a silent killer.
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Keep People and Pets Warm. Dress in layers and keep your pets inside.
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Take Care of Each Other. During extreme weather, check in with neighbors, especially seniors, to see if they need help.
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Find a Shelter. For those needing shelter or safe parking on cold nights, visit the city’s housing and homelessness webpage for links to resources.
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Connect With City Partners. Utilities and curbside trash removal in Spokane Valley are provided by independent entities. Your location determines some of the providers. Find more information and helpful links to electricity, natural gas, internet, garbage and recycling, sewer, cable, and water on the city’s utilities webpage.
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