TRUCKEE, Calif. -- Winter arrives in Truckee every year, but not everyone is used to what comes with it. For new residents and those needing a refresher, here's a look at Truckee's winter parking and snow removal regulations.
As winter storms move through the Sierra, the Truckee Police Department is reminding residents and visitors that seasonal parking restrictions are in effect, and violations may result in tickets or towing.
In Truckee, parking is prohibited on town roads and in public rights-of-way from Nov. 1 through April 30.
"Please remember that parking behind snow poles is not enough," the town wrote in a recent Facebook post. "Your vehicle must be completely out of the public right-of-way."
The restriction is intended to keep streets clear for snow removal and ice control operations. Snow removal typically begins once accumulation reaches 4 inches, and crews follow a prioritized plowing plan.
Residents can track snow removal activity using the town's Where's My Plow map.
The public right-of-way is used by the town for snow storage and winter operations. In most residential areas, the right-of-way measures approximately 60 feet, extending about 30 feet from the center of the roadway on each side.
The public right-of-way often extends beyond the edge of roadway pavement and is used to push snow to the sides of roads. Parking or storing snow within these areas is prohibited.
The Town of Truckee does not provide private snow removal services. Property owners and renters are responsible for arranging their own snow removal through private contractors.
Snow berms created by plows at the ends of driveways are unavoidable during storms. Clearing those berms is the responsibility of the homeowner or resident.
Town regulations prohibit pushing or blowing snow into public streets. When removing snow from private property, no loose or packed snow may remain on the roadway, as it can interfere with town operations and public safety, according to the town.
Snow should be stored in front yards, side yards or other approved areas outside the public right-of-way and snow storage easements. Residents are also asked not to block street signs, culverts or drainage structures or push snow onto neighboring properties.
Residents should place trash and recycling containers behind snow poles and away from roadways to avoid damage from snowplows and blowers. Containers should remain set back during and after storms, when road-widening operations occur.
Mailboxes installed within town rights-of-way are the responsibility of the property owner.
Town officials urge drivers to avoid travel during dangerous conditions such as whiteout storms or icy roads when possible. Those who must drive are encouraged to use snow tires or chains, reduce speeds and allow extra following distance.