City of Sheboygan Revises Winter Parking and Snow Emergency Rules
Sheboygan, WI — In preparation for the upcoming winter season, the City of Sheboygan has approved significant changes to its Winter Parking and Snow Emergency Ordinances. The updates, passed during the 15th Regular Common Council Meeting on November 4th, aim to enhance snow removal efficiency and prioritize public safety amid Wisconsin’s notorious winter weather.
Shortened Winter Parking Restrictions
One of the key changes is the adjustment of the winter parking restriction period. Previously extending over five months, the restrictions will now be in effect from December 1 to March 31, shortening the duration by one month. City officials believe this change will better align with actual winter weather patterns and reduce unnecessary parking limitations during milder conditions.
Continued Alternate Side Parking
During the winter parking season, residents must continue to follow alternate side parking rules from 12:00 AM to 6:00 AM. This practice is crucial for allowing snowplows to clear streets effectively. Vehicles should be parked on the even-numbered side of the street on even dates and the odd-numbered side on odd dates.
Expanded Criteria for Snow Emergencies
The ordinance revisions also broaden the circumstances under which a snow emergency can be declared. Previously limited to severe snowstorms or blizzards, the city can now initiate a snow emergency for various winter weather conditions that may impede transportation or pose safety risks.
All-Day Alternate Side Parking During Emergencies
When a snow emergency is declared, the alternate side parking rules extend to 24 hours a day on non-snow emergency routes. Residents must park according to the calendar date throughout the entire day, not just during overnight hours. This measure ensures that snowplows can access all streets for thorough clearing.
Parking Prohibitions in Specific Areas
During a snow emergency, parking is strictly prohibited on:
- Snow emergency routes
- Boulevards
- Cul-de-sacs
- Dead-end streets
These restrictions are essential to keep critical thoroughfares open for emergency vehicles and efficient snow removal.
Vehicle Relocation After Plowing
After snowplows have made their initial passes—usually two or three times—to push snow to the curb, residents are encouraged to move their vehicles to the plowed side of the street before midnight. This cooperative effort allows plows to return and clear the opposite side, ensuring both sides of the street are accessible and safe.
Enforcement and Penalties
To maintain clear streets, the city will enforce these rules diligently. Vehicles violating snow emergency parking restrictions may face:
- A $50 parking ticket
- Towing at the owner’s expense
Owners must pay the parking fine at the Sheboygan Police Department to retrieve their towed vehicles. The city emphasizes that these measures are in place to promote public safety and efficient snow removal, not to penalize residents unnecessarily.
Communication and Notifications
Mayor Jane Smith assured residents that the city will provide timely notifications of any snow emergencies. “We are committed to keeping our community informed,” she said. “Residents will receive alerts through the city’s social media channels, local radio stations, and official updates from the Department of Public Works and the Police Department.”
To stay informed, residents are encouraged to:
- Follow the City of Sheboygan, Sheboygan Police Department, and Department of Public Works on social media
- Sign up for local alerts via Nixle
- Tune in to local radio stations for announcements
City Encourages Off-Street Parking
Whenever possible, the city urges residents to use off-street parking options during snow emergencies. Parking in driveways or garages greatly assists snow removal crews in clearing streets more quickly and thoroughly.
A Simple Guideline: Stay, Wait, Relocate, Repeat
The city recommends a straightforward approach to winter parking:
- Stay parked on the correct side of the street according to the date.
- Wait for snowplows to clear the opposite side.
- Relocate your vehicle to the plowed side before midnight.
- Repeat this process throughout the snow emergency.
By following these steps, residents can contribute to safer streets and a more navigable city during winter weather events.
Additional Resources
For more information, residents can access:
- Winter Parking Regulations: Detailed rules and guidelines
- Emergency Management Services: Understanding snow emergencies
- Department of Public Works Snow Information Line: 920-459-3460
- Police Department Parking Information: Enforcement details and ticket payment
Community Cooperation is Key
City officials highlight that community participation is essential for the success of these updated ordinances. “Our goal is to ensure everyone’s safety during the winter months,” said Public Works Director Michael Thompson. “By working together and adhering to these guidelines, we can make snow removal more efficient and keep our streets safe for all.”
Residents with questions or concerns are encouraged to contact the Department of Public Works or the Sheboygan Police Department for assistance.
