Heavy snowfall in the Lower Mainland is more than just a nuisance—it’s a safety and liability concern for businesses, strata properties, and commercial facilities. A snow-covered parking lot can quickly lead to:
- Slip-and-fall accidents for pedestrians
- Vehicle collisions due to poor traction and visibility
- Blocked access for staff, deliveries, and customers
- Property damage from ice buildup and improper removal techniques
Taking the right steps to manage heavy snow ensures safety, protects your property, and keeps operations running smoothly. Here are the best practices every property manager should follow.
Best Practices for Managing Snow on Parking Lots
1. Secure Snow Removal Services in Advance
Don’t wait until the first snowfall to look for help. Seasonal contracts guarantee priority service, which means your parking lot is cleared automatically—even during peak storms. Without a contract, you risk delays when demand is at its highest.
2. Clear Snow Promptly After Each Storm
Allowing snow to sit creates packed layers that are harder to remove and can quickly turn to ice. Prompt removal:
- Improves pedestrian and vehicle safety
- Reduces liability risks
- Keeps asphalt from cracking under freeze-thaw cycles
3. Use Salting and De-Icing for Ice Prevention
Plowing removes snow, but salting and de-icing prevent slippery surfaces. Applying products before, during, and after storms helps:
- Stop ice from bonding to pavement
- Improve traction for vehicle
- Minimize refreezing after plowing
Read Also: Should you use Rock Salt or Ice Melt for Driveways and Pathways?
4. Plan Where to Pile Snow
Randomly piling snow can block sightlines, reduce parking capacity, or cause drainage issues when melting begins. Designate safe snow pile zones that:
- Don’t obstruct walkways or entrances
- Avoid storm drains (to prevent flooding during melt)
- Allow visibility for drivers entering and exiting
5. Protect Parking Lot Surfaces
Improper plowing can scrape asphalt, chip curbs, or damage painted lines. Use professional-grade equipment and trained operators to:
- Clear snow without gouging surfaces
- Avoid contact with curbs and wheel stops
- Extend the lifespan of your pavement
Read Also: Duties of Property Owners/Occupants during Snow Season
6. Keep Walkways and Entry Points Accessible
Safety doesn’t stop at the lot. Sidewalks, loading areas, and entryways should be cleared alongside the parking lot to ensure full accessibility. Consistent clearing also helps businesses stay compliant with municipal bylaws.
7. Prepare for Emergency Snowfall
Even with contracts in place, unexpected blizzards can overwhelm normal schedules. Make sure your provider offers 24/7 emergency response so your property is never left inaccessible.
Why Choose Image Salt & Plow for Parking Lot Snow Plowing?
Salt & Plow is trusted by commercial, industrial, and strata clients across Langley, Surrey, Vancouver, and the Lower Mainland. Our advantages include:
- Contract-based priority service – automatic plowing during snow events
- Transparent pricing – fixed salting fees + hourly plowing rates
- Full property coverage – parking lots, sidewalks, and walkways
- Experienced operators – safe techniques that prevent property damage
- Holiday availability – including December 24, 25, 26, and January 1
Book Your Snow Removal Services Now and secure peace of mind for the entire winter.
FAQs About Snow Plowing and Parking Lots
Do snow plows damage parking lots?
Not when operated correctly. Professional plowing, like the services at Salt & Plow, ensures surfaces remain intact and safe.
How soon should snow be removed from parking lots?
Ideally, plowing should begin as soon as snowfall reaches a few centimeters to prevent buildup and ice formation.
Why book seasonal snow removal services instead of on-demand?
Seasonal contracts guarantee priority service, automatic plowing, and locked-in rates. On-demand services may be delayed during peak snowfall.
Do you offer snow removal for sidewalks and walkways too?
Yes. Salt & Plow provides complete coverage of parking lots, sidewalks, and entryways.
What areas do you service?
We serve Langley, Surrey, Vancouver, Burnaby, Abbotsford, Richmond, and the Tri-Cities.
How do I know what contract length is best for me?
We offer 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year options. Businesses seeking long-term cost stability often choose multi-year contracts for peace of mind.
Secure Your Parking Lot Snow Removal Today
Don’t leave winter safety to chance. With a seasonal snow removal plan, you can keep your parking lot clear, safe, and accessible all season long.
Image Salt & Plow provides contract-based snow plowing and salting services across the Lower Mainland—so your property is always prepared when the snow falls.
Lock in Your Snow Removal Contract Today and keep your parking lot safe, accessible, and damage-free all season long.
