When It Snows in the District Snow Tips Wind, pavement temperatures, and duration of storms will affect snow and/or ice removal Use public transportation whenever possible. Fewer cars on the streets give snow plows more room to work. If you must drive during a snowstorm, stay two car-lengths behind a snowplow. Never cut in between a caravan of plows clearing a street or highway. If your street is a designated Snow Emergency Route, move your car when an emergency is declared. Any vehicle parked or disabled along a Snow Emergency Route during a declared emergency will be ticketed ($250) and towed. To locate a vehicle that has been towed during a snow emergency, call (202) 727-5000. View* a map of Snow Emergency Routes If you shovel your driveway apron before the plow comes through, shovel to the right, facing the street. Home and business owners are responsible for clearing the sidewalks and steps adjacent to their property. Clear snow away from fire hydrants and catch basins. Put shoveled snow in curbside tree boxes or in the yard, not in the street. For medical emergencies where roads have not been plowed, call 911. * This document is presented in Portable Document Format (PDF). A PDF reader is required for viewing. Download a PDF Reader or Learn More About PDFs