Public Works
Snow Removal Guidelines

As winter approaches, Plainsboro residents should be reminded of their responsibilities to clean snow and remove ice.  The requirements outlined in Plainsboro’s ordinances include the following

  • All property owners or agents of apartment complexes must clear all sidewalks, private streets and parking lots of snow and ice within 24 hours of the end of the snowfall.

  • No one should throw or place snow or ice on any public street within the Township.

  • If in the interest of public safety the Township must intervene to remove snow or ice from sidewalks, private streets or parking lots, then the property owner or complex owner will be charged for the cost of such removal.

This ordinances is enforceable through fines and if found guilty in Municipal Court; violators will be fined $50. for the first offense, $100 for the second offense and up to $500 for each subsequent offense.  Residents should note that they have an obligation to clear snow each time there is a snowfall and that upon completion of each snowfall, they have a 24-hour period in which to clear the snow.  Each of these 24-hours periods is considered to be another violation of the ordinance.  The Plainsboro Public Works Department works hard to provide safe and efficient removal of snow and ice from the Township roadways.  All road surfaces are treated with a combination of crushed salt mixed with calcium chloride liquid to provide for the fast melting of frozen precipitation.  Plowing operations start with the onset of three or more inches of snow.  Bridges, intersection and major arteries are given first priority, followed by residential streets.

Automobiles parked on the street present a hindrance and a safety hazard to plowing operations, especially in cul-de-sac areas.  Residents are reminded to observe Township ordinances and refrain from parking on roadways during winter storms.  High speed passing, passing on the right and tailgating snow equipment is both illegal and dangerous.  Adhering to these regulations will provide for everyone’s safety in the event of a snowstorm.

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