Snow Plow Routes
We provide the highest possible level of service to the most significant streets in Seattle. When snow falls, crews continuously plow streets and treat them with salt where needed.
Real-Time Snow Plow Map
During snow events, you can use our Winter Weather Response Map to see real-time updates about street conditions and which streets we have recently plowed.
Launch the Map: Recently plowed streets
Our Planned Snow Plow Routes
GOLD Snow Routes
These are streets of regional importance for hospitals, buses, large trucks, and major employers. Our objective is to provide bare and wet pavement over all travel lanes within 12 hours of a significant lull in the storm.
EMERALD Snow Routes
These are streets of citywide importance for hospitals, buses, and general traffic. Our objective is to provide bare and wet pavement for one lane in each direction within 12 hours of a significant lull in the storm.
How are routes prioritized?
- Routes used by first responders and transit to major institutions like hospitals, schools, and major employers.
- Non-arterial streets are not plowed.
- Note: The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) maintains I-5, I-90, other highways, and several bridges in Seattle.
How do we plow streets?
- Snow is plowed to the side of the street so that when it melts the water will be more likely to stay off the roadway.
- If temperatures drop at night causing the water to freeze again, there will be less ice on the street.
- When snow is pushed to the side of the street, it may accumulate on sidewalks and in front of driveways requiring residents and businesses to clear it from alongside their property.
- Try to avoid parking your car on a street that is on a snow route. When a plows passes by, the car may be buried in snow requiring the driver to dig it out.
Who clears snow off sidewalks and driveways?
- Residents and businesses are responsible for clearing snow and ice from the sidewalks next to their property. They are also responsible for snow removal on their property, including driveways, parking lots, or other areas.
Does SDOT plan with other organizations?
- SDOT works in cooperation with state, county, and city agencies as well as Metro Transit, Community Transit, Sound Transit and the Seattle School District.
- Managers from these agencies meet each year to plan how they will coordinate their work.
- During snow and ice events they share information and assist each other.