Public Works in the City of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota.

On weekdays, snowplow drivers begin their day very early, usually between midnight and 3 a.m. Major thoroughfares and business district streets are plowed and sanded first, followed by residential streets and cul-de-sacs. Snow plowing is usually completed within 8-10 hours after snowfall. Keep in mind that the severity and duration of the winter storm affects plowing schedules.

You should be extremely cautious when snow removal and sanding operations are underway. These vehicles must stop and back up frequently, so you should stay a minimum of 75 feet behind them. A snow cloud often obscures the equipment, so don't pass unless you can see the entire snowplow. Remember that a typical plow is wider than most driving lanes if the plow wing is fully extended.

Downtown snow removal generally occurs one to three days after a measurable snow event. City ordinances require property owners to clear ice and snow from sidewalks within 24 hours after the snow or ice has been deposited. To assist property owners with sidewalk removal the City of Detroit Lakes deploys a sidewalk plow in the residential areas.

On the weekends, the City of Detroit Lakes policy is to plow after 4 inches or more of snow has accumulated or drifting has occurred causing difficulty for vehicle traffic.

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