Start with the City’s current snow-operation status. Then check your sidewalk, carts, nearby hydrants, and the parking rule for your block.
Clear sidewalks within 24 hours
Property owners and occupants must clear snow and ice from sidewalks within 24 hours after snowfall stops. Clear corners and fire hydrants next to the property when you can, and do not shovel or blow snow back into the street.
Wait until snow has stopped for 24 hours before reporting an uncleared sidewalk to the City.
Make carts reachable
Snow operations can delay garbage and recycling. Put carts out on the scheduled day and leave them at the collection point until emptied. Remove snow and ice from the carts and create a clear path for crews.
Parking rules can change before the plow arrives
Milwaukee winter parking restrictions run from December 1 through March 1, even when no snow emergency is active. During a declared snow emergency, alternate-side restrictions expand to 10 p.m.–6 a.m., and through highways and bus routes have additional restrictions.
Use the MKEstuff parking map for the mapped category, then follow posted signs and the City’s current status.
A forecast is not an emergency declaration
The City’s snow page states whether a snow emergency is in effect. Check it directly whenever conditions or parking rules may have changed.
Common questions
How soon must I shovel my Milwaukee sidewalk?
Clear snow and ice within 24 hours after snowfall has stopped.
Should I still put out garbage carts after a snowstorm?
Yes. Set them out on the scheduled day, clear snow and ice around them, and leave them at the collection point until crews empty them.
Does snow automatically mean a snow emergency?
No. Check the City snow-operation page for the current declaration and instructions.
This guide covers the City of Milwaukee. Nearby municipalities have their own services and schedules. Send corrections to colin@mkestuff.com.