During the winter months, the Municipal District of Taber is committed to keeping our roads safe and accessible. When snowstorms occur, our crews are ready to respond promptly, focusing first on clearing and opening key routes. Once primary roads are cleared, crews work to widen roadways where possible, always prioritizing the safety of residents and motorists.
Snow and ice management is guided by our Winter Road Maintenance Policy, which outlines a clear priority system to ensure efficient and effective service across the municipality.
Clearing priorities
The MD of Taber strives to ensure safe and accessible roads following a snowfall. Our crews follow a priority system to address roads based on their volume, speed, and importance:
Priority 1 – Paved & Hard Surface Roads, Main Hamlet Routes, and Emergency Service Roads
- Snow accumulation: 5 cm (2")
- Clearing timeline: Within 12 hours
Priority 2 – School Bus Routes, Class 1 Roads, and Other Hamlet Roads
- Snow accumulation: 15 cm (6")
- Clearing timeline: Within 12 hours (after Priority 1 is completed)
Priority 3 – Class 2 Roads
- Snow accumulation: 15 cm (6")
- Clearing timeline: Within 72 hours (after Priority 2 is completed)
Priority 4 – Class 3 and 4 Roads, and the Taber Airport
- Snow accumulation: 15 cm (6")
- Clearing timeline: Within 72 hours (after Priority 3 is completed)
Please note
- That it may take up to three (3) days after a snowfall ends for crews to fully clear affected roadways.
- Private roads, driveways, and field approaches are not the responsibility of the MD of Taber.
Heavy snowfall and strong winds can delay plowing and adjust timelines.
When driving near snowplows, please give our crews plenty of space to work safely. Always adjust your driving to match road conditions and check 511.Alberta.ca for the latest road reports.
| Questions? |
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| Call 403-223-3142 Monday - Friday 8:00 am - 4:30 pm |
Ice control
Crews continuously monitor and address concerns on all roads, in order of priority, based on weather conditions. Plows are utilized to remove large accumulations of snow while sand and salt are applied to manage icy roads.
Highways
The Province of Alberta is responsible for winter maintenance on all numbered highways throughout the MD of Taber.
Hidden dangers of snow piles
Ever wondered how dangerous a snow pile can be?
Here are 4 reasons why piling your “Private Snow” on roads is a “No”.
Some residents and property managers have been plowing their driveway snow onto municipal roads, and they need to know that their actions put people and property in peril. Here’s why it’s in your best interests and the public’s best interests, NOT to pile your snow on public roads.
- It’s dangerous to others
When snow from private properties encroaches on the roadway, motorists may have difficulty seeing oncoming traffic or pedestrians. The snow also reduces the space available for pedestrians and vehicles to share the road, and that can bring them dangerously close together in possibly slippery conditions. - Snow piles interfere with plowing
Piles of snow on municipal roads are also an issue for our maintenance operators because they are obstacles to plowing. A grader and loader may be brought in to remove the snow. Our budgets are not intended for clearing “private snow” off public property.
When plows need to detour around piles of snow or can not remove snow from the road due to large deposits that must first be removed, everyone who travels the area gets a lower level of maintenance. Our operators make an effort not to block private accesses and driveways during road plowing operations. - Drainage and damage problems
Piling snow into ditches is also a “snow-no.” Why’s that? Snow piles can interfere with drainage, causing damage to both public and private property. You could find yourself in a costly conflict with a neighbour or the Province of Alberta. - Unauthorized use of right-of-ways
In accordance with Section 3(14) of our Unauthorized Use of Municipal Property Bylaw No 1806, moving snow onto a municipal right-of-way (eg. municipal roads, ditches, bridges) is considered unauthorized use. People who do not comply may have to pay for the removal of the snow if it is deemed a safety hazard or a risk of damaging public infrastructure or damages infrastructure.
Winter driving safety tips
Winter driving presents unique challenges, and the MD of Taber is committed to maintaining safe road conditions for our residents. However, your safety also depends on how you prepare and respond to winter conditions.
Stay safe on winter roads
Weather and road conditions can change rapidly during winter. Follow these essential tips to protect yourself and others:
- Slow Down: Speed limits are designed for ideal summer conditions. Adjust your speed to account for slippery or snowy roads.
- Increase Following Distance: Leave extra space between your vehicle and the one ahead of you. Keep an eye on the road far ahead to spot hazards early and give yourself time to react.
- See and Be Seen: Use your headlights during dark winter months and in poor weather to improve visibility and help other drivers see you.
- Winterize Your Vehicle: Check your battery, ignition system, lights, brakes, heating, cooling system, and windshield wipers to ensure they are ready for the winter season.
- Monitor Weather Conditions: Check the forecast before leaving home. If conditions are severe, consider delaying your trip. If travel is unavoidable, allow extra time and drive cautiously.
- Carry an Emergency Kit: Equip your vehicle with an emergency road kit, and always wear warm clothing. Keep your phone fully charged in case of emergencies.
- Clear Snow and Ice: Remove snow and ice from windows, lights, mirrors, and the roof of your vehicle. Let the fog on interior windows clear before driving to maximize visibility.
- Top-up Your Gas: Try to keep your vehicle’s fuel tank more than half full. The extra volume can help reduce moisture problems in your fuel system and it adds extra weight to your vehicle. A topped-up gas tank will also be an asset if you become stranded.
Give space to MD equipment
When you encounter MD of Taber snowplows or graders on the roads, remember that these vehicles play a vital role in keeping roadways clear and safe. For your safety and the safety of our operators:
- Do Not Follow Too Closely: Snowblowers and graders create blowing snow that can obstruct your view and make it harder for operators to see you. Always maintain a safe following distance.
- Avoid Passing: Passing plows or graders at high speeds is dangerous, especially when snow and ice are being cleared. Wait until it is safe and the operator can see you before attempting to pass.
- Be Patient: Snow-clearing operations take time and require space to ensure they are effective. Please be courteous and allow crews to do their work safely.
Always adjust your driving to match road conditions and check 511.Alberta.ca for the latest road reports.
Download the Alberta Transportation Winter Driving Safety Tip Sheet (PDF)
