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1
Town of Aylmer
Winter
Maintenance/Response
Policy
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Revised - July 2025
2
POLICY STATEMENT AND RATIONALE
It is the objective of the Town of Aylmer, Public Works Department to apply its winter
operational activities in an efficient and effective way, so as to keep the Municipal streets and
sidewalks as free as possible from hazardous winter conditions while providing a level of
service as defined herein and as provided for under the Municipal Act SO 2001 c. 25,
O Reg 239/02, (as amended).
Both the policy and the maintenance activities as listed herein are intended to be
complementary with the Town of Aylmer's Salt Management Plan. All activities in the program
will follow the intent, guidelines and practices laid out in that plan.
Winter maintenance including the scheduling of staffing and equipment should be a well-
executed operation.
The "Winter Maintenance Period" in which the policy and maintenance activities adhere to runs
from November 15th - April 15th each year.
The intent of this policy is to provide a "working" framework for winter maintenance operations
within the Town of Aylmer. Through the cooperation of all people involved and through a true
understanding of the objectives of the policy, successful operations can be implemented.
SCOPE
This policy shall apply to all roads assumed and maintained by the Corporation of the Town of
Aylmer. Notwithstanding the foregoing, neither the Corporation of the Town of Aylmer nor its
officials or employees make any promise, assurance or guarantee that the services provided
by the Public Works Department will be in excess of the minimum standard, as required by
regulation and detailed herein.
Inherent within the standard is the expectation that drivers will act responsibly and will operate
their vehicles, at all times, reasonably with due regard for the prevailing weather and road
conditions.
3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents
Table of Contents
1.0
WEATHER DATA ...........................................................................................................4
2.0
OBTAINING WEATHER DATA .......................................................................................4
3.0 SIGNIFICANT WEATHER EVENT ..............................................................................4
4.0 PRIORITY RATING OF STREETS ..............................................................................5
5.0 PRIORITY RATING OF SIDEWALKS..........................................................................6
6.0 CONDITIONS APPLICABLE TO SAND/SALT .............................................................6
7.0 MUNICIPAL PARKING LOTS ......................................................................................7
8.0 SNOW REMOVAL & STOCKPILING OF SNOW ........................................................7
9.0 AFTER HOURS ROAD CONDITIONS .......................................................................7
10.0 WHITE OUTS: BLIZZARD CONDITIONS .....................................................................9
11.0 PARKING REGULATIONS ......................................................................................9
12.0 PERSONNEL ............................................................................................................ 10
13.0 PERSONNEL CALL-BACK ........................................................................................... 10
14.0 DOCUMENTATION ................................................................................................. 10
15.0 REFERENCES ........................................................................................................ 10
16.0 REVISION HISTORY ............................................................................................... 11
"SCHEDULE "A" PRIORITY 1 STREETS ................................................................................. 12
"SCHEDULE "B" PRIORITY 1 SIDEWALKS ............................................................................ 13
"SCHEDULE "C" DESIGNATED SNOW REMOVAL AREAS ................................................... 14
"SCHEDULE "D" WINTER MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS STANDARDS ............................. 15
SCHEDULE "E" SIDEWALKS / PARKING LOTS ..................................................................... 28
WINTER MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS STANDARDS ......................................................... 28
SCHEDULE "F" DESIGNATED ADDITIONAL AREAS REQUIRING ....................................... 30
WINTER MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................................ 30
SCHEDULE "G" ORDER & EXTENT OF WINTER OPERATIONS .......................................... 32
SCHEDULE "H" STOCKPILING OF SNOW ............................................................................. 34
SCHEDULE "I" SIGNIFICANT WEATHER EVENT POLICY .................................................... 36
SCHEDULE "J" BY-LAW 68-12 WINTER ROAD PATROL SERVICES AGREEMENT ............ 37
SCHEDULE "K" SALT MANAGEMENT PLAN.......................................................................... 38
APPENDIX "A" WINTER MANAGEMENT RESPONSE FORM ................................................ 39
APPENDIX "B" STREET SURFACE CONDITION WINTER REPORT FORM ......................... 40
4
1.0
WEATHER DATA
Knowledge of the existing and forecasted weather conditions is paramount in directing and
executing a meaningful winter maintenance program.
Current weather data obtained from reliable resources will dictate what type of operations
should take place, what staffing levels will be required, what equipment will be needed,
depending upon the duration of the winter storm event and what accumulations are expected.
From October 1 to April 30, the standard is to monitor the weather, both current and forecast to
occur in the next 24 hours, once every shift or three times per calendar day, whichever is more
frequent.
From May 1 to September 30, the standard is to monitor the weather, both current and forecast
to occur in the next 24 hours, once per calendar day.
2.0
OBTAINING WEATHER DATA
Current weather conditions and forecasts, including Doppler Radar Reports are obtained from
accessing the following websites:
- Environment Canada Website - Priority 1
- The Weather Network Website - Priority 2
The Operations Manager (or his/her designate) will be in charge of monitoring and obtaining
weather data.
3.0 SIGNIFICANT WEATHER EVENT
The Town of Aylmer is committed to maintaining the safety and accessibility of its roadways,
sidewalks, and municipal infrastructure in accordance with the Minimum Maintenance
Standards for Municipal Highways. A Significant Weather Event may be declared when
hazardous weather conditions - such as heavy snowfall, freezing rain, high winds, or extreme
temperatures - affect the Town's ability to meet its maintenance requirements within the
standard timelines.
The Director of Operations and/or their designate may declare a Significant Weather Event,
pursuant to Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways
(MMS) for any or all weather hazards listed in the Significant Weather Event Policy (see
Schedule I). The Director of Operations and/or their designate may also declare the end of the
Significant Weather Event when it is determined appropriate to do so.
5
4.0 PRIORITY RATING OF STREETS
In the Town of Aylmer there are approximately 48 kms (29.83 miles) of streets in varying
lengths and widths. Not all of these streets need to be maintained at the same level of service.
The level of maintenance should vary in accordance with the classification and role that the
street plays in the total transportation network and with the timing of the maintenance
operation.
In order to simplify what levels of the service are reasonable, the streets have been classified
into the following priority groups;
a)
PRIORITY 1A STREETS
Definition: Designated Arterial Roadways which include:
MTO Highway #3 Connecting Link - Talbot Street
Elgin County Roads - # 73 John Street & #53 Elm/Beech Streets
These roadways receive the highest volume of traffic through Town and are also
key routes used for emergency vehicles and public transportation. (Class 3)
Schedule "A" details all PRIORITY 1 STREETS.
b)
PRIORITY 1B STREETS:
Definition: Those streets that are intended to carry large volumes of traffic.
These roadways serve the major traffic flows between principle areas of traffic
generation.
Included in this classification are Collector Streets and School Zones. (Class 4)
Schedule "A" details all PRIORITY 1 STREETS.
c)
PRIORITY 2 STREETS:
Definition: Those streets that provide both traffic service and land service to
adjoining residential properties.
All remaining streets that are not identified as Priority 1A & 1B Streets.
(Classes 4&5)
All required winter maintenance activities will be implemented to the Town's streets in
descending priority order.
In order to address, in tangible terms, the level of winter maintenance service which will be
applied to the Town of Aylmer's roadways, please refer to Schedule "D".
Schedule "D" provides for and defines the levels of service required for various winter
conditions as set out in Ontario Regulation 239/02 "Minimum Maintenance Standards for
Municipal Highways".
The Corporation of the Town of Aylmer officially adopted the "Minimum Maintenance
Standards for Municipal Highways, Ontario Regulation 239/02" on September 8, 2003 as per
Council Resolution No. 222.
6
5.0 PRIORITY RATING OF SIDEWALKS
Safe pedestrian movement is important on the Municipality's approximately 38.8 kms
(24.1 miles) of sidewalks. Although the road system has to have first priority during winter
storm events, the sidewalks, and particularly those which receive the most pedestrian traffic,
will be maintained as effectively as possible.
In order to simplify what levels of the service are reasonable, the sidewalks have been
classified into the following priority groups;
a.) PRIORITY 1 SIDEWALKS:
Definition: Those sidewalks that are intended to carry the largest volumes of
pedestrian traffic. These sidewalks serve the major pedestrian traffic flows
throughout the downtown business core, along main streets and in the vicinity of
schools.
Schedule "B" details all PRIORITY 1 SIDEWALKS.
b.) PRIORITY 2 SIDEWALKS:
Definition: Those sidewalks that provide lesser and intermittent pedestrian traffic
flows mainly to adjoining residential properties.
All remaining sidewalks that are not identified as "Priority 1 Sidewalks".
Sidewalk Plowing will commence when the snow has accumulated to 8.0 cm and the weather
forecast indicates that the winter storm event is substantially over. The time that plowing
commences may vary due to time of day and available staffing levels. Winter maintenance
activities of sidewalks shall be carried out on a priority basis and shall normally be carried out
during regular working hours.
Schedule "E" lists the priorities of the sidewalks and the winter operation maintenance
standards that will be implemented accordingly.
6.0 CONDITIONS APPLICABLE TO SAND/SALT
Sand:
acts as an abrasive to provide traction.
Salt:
forms brine snow, prevents ice build up and allows for easier plowing operations.
GENERALLY:
- Salt is not effective below temperatures of -12C unless there is sunshine and heavy
traffic at which time it can be effective down to -18C.
- The Town's Salt/Sand spreaders hold approximately 8.5 tons of material
- This quantity will cover approximately 65 kms. (40 miles) of streets with salt.(130kg/km)
- This quantity will cover approximately 15 kms.(9 miles) of streets with sand.(570kg/km)
- Sand (Sweetened with salt) should be mixed at a 33% mix (sand to salt)
- Travelling speed for trucks should not exceed 40 kms. (25 miles/hr.)
- Sanding should not take place within 3 meters of the railway crossing tracks located on
John Street North and Elm Street.
7
7.0 MUNICIPAL PARKING LOTS
Within the Town of Aylmer there are 2 Municipal Parking Lots.
Those being:
- Municipal Parking Lot No. 1 - Sydenham Street to King Street
- Municipal Parking Lot No. 2 - Town Hall/ Old Town Hall/Library
Although the winter maintenance of the road and sidewalk systems have a higher priority
during winter storm events, the Municipal Parking Lots will be maintained as effectively as
possible.
For the most part, the parking lots will be treated with sand/salt in order to minimize the
accumulation of snow. When sufficient accumulation has been received and at the conclusion
of a storm event, municipal parking lots will be cleared.
Whenever possible, the parking lots will be plowed before 8.00am and the snow will be stored
on site. As soon as time permits, the snow will be removed from these areas.
Schedule "E" lists the winter operation maintenance standards that will be applied to Municipal
Parking Lots and implemented accordingly.
8.0 SNOW REMOVAL & STOCKPILING OF SNOW
All plowing and ice control maintenance activities on roadways, sidewalks and parking lots take
precedent over snow removal activities.
The Town shall ensure that snow removal and snowbank management operations are
conducted in a manner that reasonably considers the safety of all road users, including
pedestrians, with particular attention to visibility and access at intersections and pedestrian
crossings. Snow removal activities shall be guided by adopted municipal policies and
procedures, which shall be reviewed periodically to ensure continued alignment with best
practices and evolving legal standards.
Schedule "C" defines the streets that require snow removal because of lack of snow storage
capacity along the curbside and/or boulevards.
Complete snow removal in these areas will be implemented when accumulations warrant
removal and preferably at the conclusion of the storm event.
Snow removal in these areas will take place between 1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. when a
favourable weather forecast is predicted.
Schedule "H" lists the areas designated for the stockpiling of snow, how those areas are to be
implemented and the procedures to follow.
9.0 AFTER HOURS ROAD CONDITIONS
As per By-Law 68-12, the Township of Malahide provides winter road patrolling services
outside of the Town of Aylmer's normal business hours of 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to
Friday. Under this agreement, the Township of Malahide is responsible for providing winter
8
road patrolling services for the roads listed below during the following time frames during the
Winter Road Patrol Maintenance Period from November 15th to March 15th annually;
Monday to Friday from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. inclusive
From Friday at 4:00 p.m. to Monday at 7:00 a.m. inclusive
All times when the Town of Aylmer Municipal Office is scheduled to be closed which includes
all statutory and provincially recognized holidays such as Christmas Day, Boxing day, New
Year's Day, and Family Day and also the week that runs between Christmas and New Year's.
WINTER MAINTENANCE PATROL ROADS
(During Regular Patrols)
Column 1
HIGHWAY
Column 2
FROM
Column 3
TO
Column 4
LENGTH (km)
Column 5
MMS CLASS
John St. S.
(Elgin County
Rd. #73)
Southern Town
Limits
Elk Street
1.2
3
Elk St.
John St. S.
(Elgin County Rd
#53)
Talbot St. E.
(M.T.O. Hwy #3)
1.2
4
Talbot St.
(M.T.O. Hwy #3)
Eastern Town
Limits
Elm St.
(Elgin County
Rd. #53)
1.6
3
Elm St.
(Elgin County
Rd. #53)
Talbot St. W.
(M.T.O. Hwy #3)
Beech St.
(Elgin County
Rd. #53)
0.8
3
Beech St.
(Elgin County
Rd. #53)
Elm St.
(Elgin County
Rd. #53)
John St. N.
(Elgin County
Rd. #73)
0.6
3
John St. N.
(Elgin County
Rd. #53)
Beech St.
(Elgin County
Rd. #53)
Northern Town
Limits
0.3
3
WINTER MAINTENANCE PATROL ROADS
During Short (Modified) Patrols
Column 1
HIGHWAY
Column 2
FROM
Column 3
TO
Column 4
LENGTH (km)
Column 5
MMS CLASS
John St.
(Elgin County
Rd. #73)
Southern Town
Limits
Northern Town
Limits
2.7
3
Winter Road Patrol Maintenance provided under this agreement consists of the following:
a) The Township if Malahide shall ensure that all winter patrol staff assigned to perform
winter road patrols on the designated roads under the agreement are competent and
adequately trained;
b) Patrollers shall drive at a safe speed to look for deficiencies and monitor existing road
conditions;
c) The person doing the patrolling must keep legible and concise patrol records;
d) When hazardous conditions are noted and/or road and weather conditions may dictate
employment of additional winter maintenance activities during the winter road patrol, the
person patrolling will immediately inform the Town of Aylmer's after-hours winter
callback pager system.
9
The current up-to-date Town of Aylmer Public Works winter callback pager system
number will be provided to the Town of Malahide annually.
e) The Township of Malahide shall incorporate and utilize their GPS Winter Patrol Manager
(WPM) Software Technology System to record all pertinent Winter Road Patrol
information for the Designated Winter Patrol Roads and furthermore will make available
all recorded information to the Town of Aylmer if requested by the Town at any time
during the term of this agreement.
f) The Township of Malahide shall, for the purposes of winter patrol, undertake winter
weather monitoring. The Township shall retain any winter weather monitoring records in
accordance with the requirements of The Ontario Municipal Records Management
System.
g) The Township of Malahide shall maintain and store all GPS Winter Patrol Manager
Tracking Technology System records with pertinent Winter Road Patrol information for
the Designated Patrol Roads as per requirements under the TOMRMS (The Ontario
Municipal Records Management System); and furthermore, will make available all
recorded information to the Town of Aylmer, if requested by the Town, at any time to the
prescribed requirements under TOMRMS after such data has been collected.
10.0
WHITE OUTS: BLIZZARD CONDITIONS
The Town of Aylmer acknowledges that the Town may be subject to extreme or extraordinary
weather at which time conditions may deteriorate to such a state that visibility will be negligible
and the maintenance operations will become dangerous and counterproductive.
When such conditions develop all maintenance operations will conclude and will resume only
when visibility and conditions improve, the Operations Manager (or his/her designate) shall
determine the operations to take place.
11.0 PARKING REGULATIONS
The Municipal Traffic/Parking By-Law 77-23 provides guidelines for parking on Municipal
Streets during the winter months.
Section 31.1 of By-Law 77-23 states:
"No person shall, without authorization of the Chief of Police and/or the Director of Operations
park any vehicle on any street or highway within the Town of Aylmer, between the hours of
3:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m., between November 15th and April 15th inclusive unless specifically
authorized within this By-Law."
Section 31.2 of By-Law 22-23 states:
"That parking shall be permitted between the hours of 3:00 a.m. to 6:00 a.m. on the South Side
of Anne Street from Caverly Rd to 200.0m westerly between November 15th and April 15th."
The intent of this by-law is to provide a clear unobstructed path for snow plowing operations.
Should a vehicle cause an obstruction, the Police Service will be notified and the ensuing
removal of the vehicle will be carried out in consultation with the Police Service.
10
12.0 PERSONNEL
A detailed agreement between the Municipality and the Aylmer Public Works Association
exists and Article 12 and 13 specifically outlines the hours of work to be performed by each
employee.
In summary, the following items are highlighted:
- The normal work week is 40 hours comprised of 5 eight-hour days.
- So far as it is practical, the normal hours of work will be 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
In as much as it is possible, all of the Winter Maintenance Activities of the Public Works
Department will be carried out during the normal workday. No one however can direct the
forces of nature and from time to time it will be necessary to schedule winter maintenance
operations outside of regular working hours.
Whenever possible, nighttime operations will be scheduled into 8 hour shifts.
When Personnel are called back the Operations Manager (or his/her designate) shall
determine the operations to take place.
13.0
PERSONNEL CALL-BACK
All after-hour operations will be at the direction of the Operations Manager (or his/her
designate) following a review of the current conditions and weather forecasts.
Two employees are scheduled to be "On Call" from November 15th - April 15th annually and
other personnel will be called in as required.
If any individual employee is not available, the next available employee in the scheduled
rotation will be called in.
14.0 DOCUMENTATION
Winter maintenance activities will be documented on the following forms provided:
Public Works Department's Winter Management Response Form
Refer to Appendix "A" - "Winter Management Response Form".
Street Surface Condition - Winter Report Form - forms will be completed during regular shifts
Refer to Appendix "B" - "Street Surface Condition - Winter Report Form".
15.0 REFERENCES
- Municipal Act, 2001 Ontario, Ontario Regulation 239/02 (As Amended)
- Ontario Highway Traffic Act, R.S.O. 1990, Chapter H.8
- Ontario Ministry of the Environment 41201e, Procedure B-4-1, "Guidelines for Snow
Disposal and Deicing Operations in Ontario".
- Town of Aylmer Traffic/Parking By-Law 72-23
- Town of Aylmer Salt Management Plan - Approved by Council - June 13, 2005
- Town of Aylmer - Council Resolution #222, adoption of "Minimum Maintenance
Standards for Municipal Highways, Ontario Regulation 239/02" - September 08, 2003.
- Town of Aylmer Public Works Association Working Agreement
11
16.0 REVISION HISTORY
- November 6, 1989: Original Document adopted by Town Council Resolution
- November 27, 1989: Revised Document adopted by Town Council Resolution
- November 25, 1991: Revised Document adopted by Town Council Resolution
- November 21, 1994: Revised Document adopted by Town Council Resolution
- October 1997: Revised Document adopted by Town Council Resolution
- October 1998: Revised Document adopted by Town Council Resolution
- July 2012: Revised Document
- July 2025: Revised Document
12
"SCHEDULE "A" PRIORITY 1 STREETS
Notes
0
1
2
mi
This map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is
for reference only. Data layers that appear on this map may or may not be
accurate, current, or otherwise reliable.
THIS MAP IS NOT TO BE USED FOR NAVIGATION
Schedule "A" Priority 1 Streets
Legend
Elgin_Road_Network
Local Road Network
World Imagery
World Imagery
Low Resolution 15m Imagery
High Resolution 60cm Imagery
High Resolution 30cm Imagery
Citations
4.8m Resolution Metadata
Maxar
Date: June 24, 2025
13
"SCHEDULE "B" PRIORITY 1 SIDEWALKS
Notes
0
1
2
mi
This map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is
for reference only. Data layers that appear on this map may or may not be
accurate, current, or otherwise reliable.
THIS MAP IS NOT TO BE USED FOR NAVIGATION
Schedule "B" Priority 1 Sidewalks
Legend
Elgin_Road_Network
Local Road Network
World Imagery
World Imagery
Low Resolution 15m Imagery
High Resolution 60cm Imagery
High Resolution 30cm Imagery
Citations
4.8m Resolution Metadata
Maxar
Date: June 24, 2025
14
"SCHEDULE "C" DESIGNATED SNOW REMOVAL AREAS
Notes
0
1000
2000
ft
This map is a user generated static output from an Internet mapping site and is
for reference only. Data layers that appear on this map may or may not be
accurate, current, or otherwise reliable.
THIS MAP IS NOT TO BE USED FOR NAVIGATION
Schedule "C" Snow Removal Areas
Legend
Elgin_Road_Network
Local Road Network
World Imagery
World Imagery
Low Resolution 15m Imagery
High Resolution 60cm Imagery
High Resolution 30cm Imagery
Citations
1.2m Resolution Metadata
Maxar
Date: June 24, 2025
15
"SCHEDULE "D" WINTER MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS
STANDARDS
16
"SCHEDULE "D"
WINTER MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS STANDARDS
Town of Aylmer adopted the
"Minimum Maintenance Standards For Municipal Highways"
Municipal Act, 2001 Ontario, Ontario Regulation 239/02
In its entirety September 08, 2003 as per Resolution #222
The following are excerpts taken from the Minimum Maintenance Standards as they
specifically pertain to the Town's Winter Maintenance/Response Policy.
ONTARIO REGULATION 239/02
MINIMUM MAINTENANCE STANDARDS FOR MUNICIPAL HIGHWAYS
Last amendment: 366-18
This Regulation is made in English only.
Definitions
1. (1) In this Regulation,
"bicycle facility" means the on-road and in-boulevard cycling facilities listed in Book 18 of
the Ontario Traffic Manual;
"bicycle lane" means,
(a) A portion of a roadway that has been designated by pavement markings or signage for the
preferential or exclusive use of cyclists, or
(b) A portion of a roadway that has been designated for the exclusive use of cyclists by
signage and a physical or marked buffer;
"cm" means centimetres;
"day" means a 24-hour period;
"encroachment" means anything that is placed, installed, constructed or planted within the
highway that was not placed, installed, constructed or planted by the municipality;
"ice" means all kinds of ice, however formed;
"motor vehicle" has the same meaning as in subsection 1 (1) of the Highway Traffic Act,
except that it does not include a motor assisted bicycle;
"non-paved surface" means a surface that is not a paved surface;
"Ontario Traffic Manual" means the Ontario Traffic Manual published by the Ministry of
Transportation, as amended from time to time;
"paved surface" means a surface with a wearing layer or layers of asphalt, concrete or asphalt
emulsion;
17
"pothole" means a hole in the surface of a roadway caused by any means, including wear or
subsidence of the road surface or subsurface;
"roadway" has the same meaning as in subsection 1 (1) of the Highway Traffic Act;
"shoulder" means the portion of a highway that provides lateral support to the roadway and
that may accommodate stopped motor vehicles and emergency use;
"sidewalk" means the part of the highway specifically set aside or commonly understood to be
for pedestrian use, typically consisting of a paved surface but does not include crosswalks,
medians, boulevards, shoulders or any part of the sidewalk where cleared snow has been
deposited;
"significant weather event" means an approaching or occurring weather hazard with the
potential to pose a significant danger to users of the highways within a municipality;
"snow accumulation" means the natural accumulation of any of the following that, alone or
together, covers more than half a lane width of a roadway:
1. Newly-fallen snow.
2. Wind-blown snow.
3. Slush;
"substantial probability" means a significant likelihood considerably in excess of 51 per cent;
"surface" means the top of a roadway or shoulder.
"utility" includes any air, gas, water, electricity, cable, fiber-optic, telecommunication or
traffic control system or subsystem, fire hydrants, sanitary sewers, storm sewers, property
bars and survey monuments;
"utility appurtenance" includes maintenance holes and hole covers, water shut-off covers and
boxes, valves, fittings, vaults, braces, pipes, pedestals, and any other structures or items
that form part of or are an accessory part of any utility;
"weather" means air temperature, wind and precipitation;
"weather hazard" means the weather hazards determined by Environment Canada as meeting
the criteria for the issuance of an alert under its Public Weather Alerting Program. O. Reg.
239/02, s. 1 (1); O. Reg. 23/10, s. 1 (1); O. Reg. 47/13, s. 1; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 1 (1, 2).
(2) For the purposes of this Regulation, every highway or part of a highway under the
jurisdiction of a municipality in Ontario is classified in the Table to this section as a Class
1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4, Class 5 or Class 6 highway, based on the speed limit
applicable to it and the average annual daily traffic on it. O. Reg. 239/02, s. 1 (2); O. Reg.
366/18, s. 1. (3).
(3) For the purposes of subsection (2) and the Table to this section, the average annual
daily traffic on a highway or part of a highway under municipal jurisdiction shall be
determined,
(a) by counting and averaging the daily two-way traffic on the highway or part of the
highway; or
(b) by estimating the average daily two-way traffic on the highway or part of the
highway. O. Reg. 239/02, s. 1 (3); O. Reg. 23/10, s. 1 (2).; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 1 (3).
(4) For the purposes of this Regulation, unless otherwise indicated in a provision of this
Regulation, a municipality is deemed to be aware of a fact if, in the absence of actual
18
knowledge of the fact, circumstances are such that the municipality ought reasonably to be
aware of the fact. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 1 (4).
TABLE
CLASSIFICATION OF HIGHWAYS
Average Annual Daily Traffic
(number of motor vehicles)
Posted or Statutory Speed Limit (kilometres per hour)
91 - 100 81 - 90 71 - 80 61 - 70 51 - 60 41 - 50 1 - 40
53,000 or more
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
23,000 - 52,999
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
15,000 0 22,999
1
1
2
2
2
3
3
12,000 - 14,999
1
1
2
2
2
3
3
10,000 - 11,999
1
1
2
2
3
3
3
8,000 - 9,999
1
1
2
3
3
3
3
6,000 - 7,999
1
2
2
3
3
4
4
5,000 - 5,999
1
2
2
3
3
4
4
4,000 - 4,999
1
2
3
3
3
4
4
3,000 - 3,999
1
2
3
3
3
4
4
2,000 - 2,999
1
2
3
3
4
5
5
1,000 - 1,999
1
3
3
3
4
5
5
500 - 999
1
3
4
4
4
5
5
200 - 499
1
3
4
4
5
5
6
50 - 199
1
3
4
5
5
6
6
0 - 49
1
3
6
6
6
6
6
O. Reg. 366/18, s. 1 (5).
Application
2. (1) This Regulation sets out the minimum standards of repair for highways under
municipal jurisdiction for the purpose of clause 44 (3) (c) of the Act. O. Reg. 288/03, s. 1.
(2) Revoked: O. Reg. 23/10, s. 2.
(3) This Regulation does not apply to Class 6 highways. O. Reg. 239/02, s. 2 (3).
Purpose
2.1 The purpose of this Regulation is to clarify the scope of the statutory defence
available to a municipality under clause 44 (3) of the Act by establishing maintenance
standards which are non-prescriptive at to the methods or materials to be used in
complying with the standards but instead describe a desired outcome. O. Reg. 366/18, s.
2.
MAINTENANCE STANDARDS
Patrolling
3. (1) The standard for the frequency of patrolling of highways to check for conditions
described in this Regulation is set out in the Table to this section. O. Reg. 23/10, s. 3 (1);
O. Reg. 366/18, s. 3 (2).
(2) If it is determined by the municipality that the weather monitoring referred to in
section 3.1 indicates that there is a substantial probability of snow accumulation on
roadways, ice formation on roadways or icy roadways, the standard for patrolling
highways is, in addition to that set out in subsection (1), to patrol highways that the
municipality selects as representative of its highways, at intervals deemed necessary by the
municipality, to check for such conditions. O. Reg. 47/13, s. 2; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 3 (2).
19
(3) Patrolling a highway consists of observing the highway, either by driving on or by
electronically monitoring the highway, and may be performed by persons responsible for
patrolling highways or by persons responsible for or performing highway maintenance
activities. O. Reg. 23/10, s. 3 (1).
(4) This section does not apply in respect of the conditions described in section 10,
subsections 11 (0.1) and 12 (1) and section 16.1, 16.2, 16.3 or 16.4. O. Reg. 23/10, s. 3 (1);
O. Reg. 366/18, s. 3 (3).
TABLE
PATROLLING FREQUENCY
Class of Highway
Patrolling Frequency
1
3 times every 7 days
2
2 times every 7 days
3
once every 7 days
4
once every 14 days
5
once every 30 days
O. Reg. 239/02, s. 3, Table; O. Reg. 23/10, s. 3 (2).
Weather monitoring
3.1 (1) From October 1 to April 30, the standard is to monitor the weather, both current and
forecast to occur in the next 24 hours, once every shift or three times per calendar day,
whichever is more frequent, at intervals determined by the municipality. O. Reg. 47/13, s.
3; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 4.
(2) From May 1 to September 30, the standard is to monitor the weather, both current and
forecast to occur in the next 24 hours, once per calendar day. O. Reg. 47/13, S. 3; O. Reg.
366/18, s. 4.
Snow accumulation
4. (1) Subject to section 4.1, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on roadway
is,
(a) after becoming aware of the fact that the snow accumulation on a roadway is greater
than the depth set out in the Table to this section, to deploy snow-clearing resources
as soon as practicable to address the snow accumulation; and
(b) after the snow accumulation has ended, to address the snow accumulation so as to
reduce the snow to a depth less than or equal to the depth set out in the Table within
the time set out in the Table,
(i) to provide a minimum lane width of the lesser of three metres for each lane or the
actual lane width, or
(ii) on a Class 4 or Class 5 highway with two lanes, to provide a total width of at
least five metres. O. Reg. 47/13, s. 4.
(2) If the depth of snow accumulation on a roadway is less than or equal to the depth set
out in the Table to this section, the roadway is deemed to be in a state of repair with
respect to snow accumulation. O. Reg. 47/13, s. 4.
(3) For the purposes of this section, the depth of snow accumulation on a roadway and, if
applicable, lane width under clause (1) (b), may be determined in accordance with
20
subsection (4) by a municipal employee, agent or contractor, whose duties or
responsibilities include one or more of the following:
1. Patrolling highways.
2. Performing highway maintenance activities.
3. Supervising staff who perform activities described in paragraph 1 or 2. O. Reg.
47/13, s. 4; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 5 (2).
(4) The depth of snow accumulation on a roadway and lane width may be determined by,
(a) performing an actual measurement;
(b) monitoring the weather; or
(c) performing a visual estimate. O. Reg. 47/13, s. 4; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 5 (3).
(5) For the purposes of this section, addressing snow accumulation on a roadway
includes,
(a) plowing the roadway;
(b) salting the roadway;
(c) applying abrasive materials to the roadway;
(d) applying other chemical or organic agents to the roadway;
(e) any combination of the methods described in clauses (a) to (d). O. Reg. 366/18,
s. 5 (4).
(6) This section does not apply to that portion of the roadway,
(a) designated for parking;
(b) consisting of a bicycle lane or other bicycle facility; or
(c) used by a municipality for snow storage. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 5 (4).
TABLE
SNOW ACCUMULATION
Class of Highway Depth
Time
1
2.5 cm
4 hours
2
5 cm
6 hours
3
8 cm
12 hours
4
8 cm
16 hours
5
10 cm
24 hours
O. Reg. 47/13, s. 4; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 5 (5).
21
Snow accumulation on roadways, significant weather event
3.1
(1) If a municipality declares a significant weather event relating to snow
accumulation, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on roadways until
the declaration of the end of the significant weather event is,
(a) to monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1; and
(b) if deemed practicable by the municipality, to deploy resources to address
snow accumulation on roadways, starting from the time that the municipality
deems appropriate to do so. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(2) If the municipality complies with subsection (1), all roadways within the
municipality are deemed to be in a state of repair with respect to snow
accumulation until the applicable time in the Table to section 4 expires following
the declaration of the end of the significant weather event by the municipality. O.
Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(3) Following the end of the weather hazard in respect of which a significant
weather event was declared by a municipality under subsection (1), the
municipality shall,
(a) declare the end of the significant weather event when the municipality
determines it is appropriate to do so; and
(b) address snow accumulation on roadways in accordance with section 4. O. Reg.
366/18, s. 7.
Snow accumulation, bicycle lanes
4.2 (1) Subject to section 4.3, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on bicycle
lanes is,
(a) after becoming aware of the fact that the snow accumulation on a bicycle lane
is greater than the depth set out in the Table to this section, to deploy resources
as soon as practicable to address the snow accumulation; and
(b) after the snow accumulation has ended, to address the snow accumulation so as
to reduce the snow to a depth less than or equal to the depth set out in the Table
to this section to provide a minimum bicycle lane width of the lesser of 1 metre
or the actual bicycle lane width. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(2) If the depth of snow accumulation on a bicycle lane is less than or equal to the
depth set out in the Table to this section, the bicycle lane is deemed to be in a state
of repair in respect of snow accumulation. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(3) For the purposes of this section, the depth of snow accumulation on a bicycle
lane and, if applicable, lane width under clause (1) (b), may be determined in the
same manner as set out in subsection 4 (4) and by the persons mentioned in
subsection 4 (3), with necessary modifications. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
22
(4) For the purposes of this section, addressing snow accumulation on a bicycle
lane includes,
(a) plowing the bicycle lane;
(b) salting the bicycle lane;
(c) applying abrasive materials to the bicycle lane;
(d) applying other chemical or organic agents to the bicycle lane;
(e) sweeping the bicycle lane; or
(f) any combination of the methods described in clauses (a) to (e). O. Reg.
366/18, s. 7.
TABLE
SNOW ACCUMULATION - BICYCLE LANES
Class of Highway
or Adjacent
Highway
Depth
Time
1
2.5 cm
8 hours
2
5 cm
12 hours
3
8 cm
24 hours
4
8 cm
24 hours
5
10 cm
24 hours
23
O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
Snow accumulation on bicycle lanes, significant weather event
4.3 (1) If a municipality declares a significant weather event relating to snow
accumulation, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on bicycle lanes until the
declaration of the end of the significant weather event is,
(a) to monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1; and
(b) if deemed practicable by the municipality, to deploy resources to address snow
accumulation on bicycle lanes, starting from the time that the municipality deems
appropriate to do so. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(2) If the municipality complies with subsection (1), all bicycle lanes within the
municipality are deemed to be in a state of repair with respect to snow accumulation until
the applicable time in the Table to section 4.2 expires following the declaration of the end
of the significant weather event by the municipality. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(3) Following the end of the weather hazard in respect of which a significant weather
event was declared by a municipality under subsection (1), the municipality shall,
(a) declare the end of the significant weather event when the municipality
determines it is appropriate to do so; and
(b) address snow accumulation on bicycle lanes in accordance with section 4.2. O.
Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
Ice formation on roadways and icy roadways
5. (1) The standard for the prevention of ice formation on roadways is doing the
following in the 24-hour period preceding an alleged formation of ice on a roadway:
1. Monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1.
2. Patrol in accordance with section 3.
3. If the municipality determines, as a result of its activities under paragraph 1 or
2, that there is a substantial probability of ice forming on a roadway, treat the
roadway, if practicable, to prevent ice formation within the time set out in Table 1
to this section, starting from the time that the municipality determines is the
appropriate time to deploy resources for that purpose. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(2) If the municipality meets the standard set out in subsection (1) and, despite such
compliance, ice forms on a roadway, the roadway is deemed to be in a state of repair until
the applicable time set out in Table 2 to this section expires after the municipality
becomes aware of the fact that the roadway is icy. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(3) Subject to section 5.1, the standard for treating icy roadways is to treat the icy
roadway within the time set out in Table 2 to this section, and an icy roadway is deemed
to be in a state of repair until the applicable time set out in Table 2 to this section expires
after the municipality becomes aware of the fact that a roadway is icy. O. Reg. 366/18, s.
8.
(4) For the purposes of this section, treating a roadway means applying material to the
roadway, including but not limited to, salt, sand or any combination of salt and sand. O.
24
Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(5) For greater certainty, this section applies in respect of ice formation on bicycle lanes
on a roadway, but does not apply to other types of bicycle facilities. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
TABLE 1
ICE FORMATION PREVENTION
Class of Highway
Time
1
6 hours
2
8 hours
3
16 hours
4
24 hours
5
24 hours
TABLE 2
TREATMENT OF ICY ROADWAYS
Class of Highway
Time
1
3 hours
2
4 hours
3
8 hours
4
12 hours
5
16 hours
Icy roadways, significant weather event
4. (1) If a municipality declares a significant weather event relating to ice, the standard for
treating icy roadways until the declaration of the end of the significant weather event is,
(a) to monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1; and
(b) if deemed practicable by the municipality, to deploy resources to treat icy
roadways, starting from the time that the municipality deems appropriate to do
so. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(2) If the municipality complies with subsection (1), all roadways within the municipality
are deemed to be in a state of repair with respect to any ice which forms or may be present
until the applicable time in Table 2 to section 5 expires after the declaration of the end of
the significant weather event by the municipality. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(3) Following the end of the weather hazard in respect of which a significant weather event
was declared by a municipality under subsection (1), the municipality shall,
(a) declare the end of the significant weather event when the municipality
determines it is appropriate to do so; and,
(b) treat icy roadways in accordance with section 5. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
Snow accumulation on sidewalks
16.3 (1) Subject to section 16.4, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on a
sidewalk after the snow accumulation has ended is,
a) to reduce the snow to a depth less than or equal to 8 centimetres within 48
hours; and
25
b) to provide a minimum sidewalk width of 1 metre. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
(2) If the depth of snow accumulation on a sidewalk is less than or equal to 8 centimetres,
the sidewalk is deemed to be in a state of repair in respect of snow accumulation. O. Reg.
366/18, s. 15.
(3) If the depth of snow accumulation on a sidewalk exceeds 8 centimetres while the
snow continues to accumulate, the sidewalk is deemed to be in a state of repair with
respect to snow accumulation, until 48 hours after the snow accumulation ends. O. Reg.
366/18, s. 15.
(4) For the purposes of this section, the depth of snow accumulation on a sidewalk may
be determined in the same manner as set out in subsection 4 (4) and by the persons
mentioned in subsection 4 (3) with necessary modifications. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
(5) For the purposes of this section, addressing snow accumulation on a sidewalk
includes,
(a) plowing the sidewalk;
(b) salting the sidewalk;
(c) applying abrasive materials to the sidewalk;
(d) applying other chemical or organic agents to the sidewalk; or
(e) any combination of the methods described in clauses (a) to (d). O. Reg. 366/18,
s. 15.
Snow accumulation on sidewalks, significant weather event
16.4 (1) If a municipality declares a significant weather event relating to snow
accumulation, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on sidewalks until the
declaration of the end of the significant weather event is,
(a) to monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1; and
(b) if deemed practicable by the municipality, to deploy resources to address snow
accumulation on sidewalks starting from the time that the municipality deems appropriate
to do so. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
(2) If the municipality complies with subsection (1), all sidewalks within the municipality
are deemed to be in a state of repair with respect to any snow present until 48 hours
following the declaration of the end of the significant weather event by the
municipality. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
(3) Following the end of the weather hazard in respect of which a significant weather
event was declared by a municipality under subsection (1), the municipality shall,
(a) declare the end of the significant weather event when the municipality
determines it is appropriate to do so; and
(b) address snow accumulation on sidewalks in accordance with section 16.3. O.
Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
26
Ice formation on sidewalks and icy sidewalks
16.5 (1) Subject to section 16.6, the standard for the prevention of ice formation on
sidewalks is to,
(a) monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1 in the 24-hour period
preceding an alleged formation of ice on a sidewalk; and
(b) treat the sidewalk if practicable to prevent ice formation or improve traction
within 48 hours if the municipality determines that there is a substantial
probability of ice forming on a sidewalk, starting from the time that the
municipality determines is the appropriate time to deploy resources for that
purpose. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
(2) If ice forms on a sidewalk even though the municipality meets the standard set out in
subsection (1), the sidewalk is deemed to be in a state of repair in respect of ice until 48
hours after the municipality first becomes aware of the fact that the sidewalk is icy. O.
Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
(3) The standard for treating icy sidewalks after the municipality becomes aware of the
fact that a sidewalk is icy is to treat the icy sidewalk within 48 hours, and an icy sidewalk
is deemed to be in a state of repair for 48 hours after it has been treated. O. Reg. 366/18,
s. 15.
(4) For the purposes of this section, treating a sidewalk means applying materials
including salt, sand or any combination of salt and sand to the sidewalk. O. Reg. 366/18,
s. 15.
Icy sidewalks, significant weather event
16.6 (1) If a municipality declares a significant weather event relating to ice, the standard
for addressing ice formation or ice on sidewalks until the declaration of the end of the
significant weather event is,
(a) to monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1; and
(b) if deemed practicable by the municipality, to deploy resources to treat the
sidewalks to prevent ice formation or improve traction, or treat the icy sidewalks,
starting from the time that the municipality deems appropriate to do so. O. Reg.
366/18, s. 15.
(2) If the municipality complies with subsection (1), all sidewalks within the municipality
are deemed to be in a state of repair with respect to any ice which forms or is present until
48 hours after the declaration of the end of the significant weather event by the
municipality. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
(3) Following the end of the weather hazard in respect of which a significant weather
event was declared by a municipality under subsection (1), the municipality shall,
27
(a) declare the end of the significant weather event when the municipality
determines it is appropriate to do so; and
(b) address the prevention of ice formation on sidewalks or treat icy sidewalks in
accordance with section 16.5. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
Winter sidewalk patrol
16.7 (1) If it is determined by the municipality that the weather monitoring referred to in
section 3.1 indicates that there is a substantial probability of snow accumulation on
sidewalks in excess of 8 cm, ice formation on sidewalks or icy sidewalks, the standard for
patrolling sidewalks is to patrol sidewalks that the municipality selects as representative
of its sidewalks at intervals deemed necessary by the municipality. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
(2) Patrolling a sidewalk consists of visually observing the sidewalk, either by driving by
the sidewalk on the adjacent roadway or by driving or walking on the sidewalk or by
electronically monitoring the sidewalk, and may be performed by persons responsible for
patrolling roadways or sidewalks or by persons responsible for or performing roadway or
sidewalk maintenance activities. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
Closure of a highway
16.8 (1) When a municipality closes a highway or part of a highway pursuant to its
powers under the Act, the highway is deemed to be in a state of repair in respect of all
conditions described in this Regulation from the time of the closure until the highway is
re-opened by the municipality. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
(2) For the purposes of subsection (1), a highway or part of a highway is closed on the
earlier of,
(a) when a municipality passes a by-law to close the highway or part of the
highway; and
(b) when a municipality has taken such steps as it determines necessary to
temporarily close the highway or part of a highway. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
Declaration of significant weather event
16.9. A municipality declaring the beginning of a significant weather event or declaring
the end of a significant weather event under this Regulation shall do so in one or more of
the following ways:
1. By posting a notice on the municipality's website.
2. By making an announcement on a social media platform, such as Facebook or
Twitter.
3. By sending a press release or similar communication to internet, newspaper,
radio or television media.
4. By notification through the municipality's police service.
5. By any other notification method required in a by-law of the municipality. O.
Reg. 366/18, s. 15.
28
SCHEDULE "E" SIDEWALKS / PARKING LOTS
WINTER MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS STANDARDS
29
"SCHEDULE "E"
SIDEWALKS / PARKING LOTS
WINTER MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS STANDARDS
Accumulation Accumulation
Less than 8.0 cm. Greater than 8.0 cm.
SIDEWALKS
ACTIVITY
MAXIMUM
LAG TIME
MINIMUM
CONDITION
ACTIVITY
MAXIMUM
LAG TIME
MINIMUM
CONDITION
Priority 1
Plow
1 working
day
N/A
Priority 2
Plow
3 working
days
N/A
PARKING
LOTS
ACTIVITY
MAXIMUM
LAG TIME
MINIMUM
CONDITION
ACTIVITY
MAXIMUM
LAG TIME
MINIMUM
CONDITION
Sand/Salt
1 working
day
N/A
Plow
1 working
day
N/A
NOTES
1.
Lag Time is defined as the time lapse at the conclusion of a winter storm.
2.
N/A - Not Applicable
3.
Winter Maintenance on sidewalks where there is less than 8.0 cm. in accumulation will
be based on staffing availability.
30
SCHEDULE "F" DESIGNATED ADDITIONAL AREAS REQUIRING
WINTER MAINTENANCE
31
SCHEDULE "F"
DESIGNATED ADDITIONAL AREAS REQUIRING
WINTER MAINTENANCE
Aylmer Fire Department
Aylmer Police Service Station
Optimist Park Entrance off of Elm Street for access into the Elm Street Sanitary Main
Pumping Station
Cooper's Alley
Myrtle Street Bridge Walkway
Talbot St./John St. Crosswalks
Talbot St./Elm Street Crosswalks
John Street North/Beech Street Crosswalks
John Street North/Progress Drive Crosswalks
John Street North Pedestrian Crossover
Talbot Street West Pedestrian Crossover
School Crossings, McGregor and Davenport
John St. S. Pedestrian Crossover
Talbot St. E./Queen St. Pedestrian Crossover
Talbot St. E. Crosswalks
Caverly Rd. Crosswalks
Elk St./Queen St Crossovers
Elk St./Victoria St. Crossovers
32
SCHEDULE "G" ORDER & EXTENT OF WINTER OPERATIONS
33
SCHEDULE "G"
ORDER & EXTENT OF WINTER OPERATIONS
A.) Should Winter Operations be required to be implemented on Town streets between
the hours of 9:00 p.m. and 4:00 a.m.
Operations will be completed on all "Priority 1" classified streets as identified in
"Section 3" of the Policy and as detailed in Schedule"A".
B.) Should Winter Operations take place between the hours of 4:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.
the following operations and the order in which they will be implemented will apply.
1.) All "PRIORITY 1" Streets
2.) All Remaining Streets
3.) All "PRIORITY 1" Sidewalks
4.) All Remaining Sidewalks
34
SCHEDULE "H" STOCKPILING OF SNOW
35
SCHEDULE "H"
STOCKPILING OF SNOW
Within the Town of Aylmer, three locations have been designated for the stockpiling of snow
that has been removed from clean-up operations.
The stockpiling sites and procedures are as follows:
A.) The primary dump site shall be the parking lots of Steen Park and Optimist Park offer
the largest and most accessible drop off areas.
Best efforts should be made to keep the snow as far away from the Catfish Creek as
possible.
In order to achieve this objective, the following procedures will be implemented;
1.
The parking lot at Steen Park will be used first, until it has reached capacity.
2.
The northern half of the Optimist Parking lot will be used maintaining a maximum
distance back from the creek bank.
B.)
Snow from Municipal Lot 1 shall be stockpiled in the furthest south row of parking
spaces in the middle. For the angled parking along Sydenham Street East, snow shall
be stockpiled in the centre area between the community mailbox and the hydro pole.
Snow from Municipal Lot 2 shall be stockpiled along the eastern edge of Palmer
Park, the southern edge of the cenotaph/gazebo area, and the western edge of Bear
Park. Snow will be placed on the grassy areas for each.
Stockpiled snow from Municipal Lots 1 and 2 will be removed when time permits.
B.) All stockpiling of snow activities shall be carried out following the Ontario Ministry of the
Environment's 41201e, Procedure B-4-1, "Guidelines for Snow Disposal and Deicing
Operations in Ontario".
36
SCHEDULE "I" SIGNIFICANT WEATHER EVENT POLICY
Page 1 of 7
Alternative formats and communication support available upon request. Please contact
[email protected] or 519-773-3164 for assistance.
Subject:
Significant Weather Event Policy
Policy #:
Date Approved:
Date Revised:
1. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to establish a protocol for the declaration of a Significant
Weather Event under Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for
Municipal Highways (MMS).
2. Background
Ontario Regulation 239/02: Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal
Highways
This regulation sets out the minimum maintenance standards that municipalities must
follow for roads, sidewalks, and bicycle lanes to manage liability and ensure public
safety. The Town of Aylmer maintains its roads infrastructure according to the Minimum
Maintenance Standards (MMS).
According to this regulation, if a municipality declares a Significant Weather Event, the
standard for addressing various weather events until the end of the Significant Weather
Event is to:
a) monitor the weather;
b) deploy resources to address the weather event when deemed appropriate and
practicable by the Town to do so.
3. Definitions
Clerk
The Clerk for the Corporation of the Town of Aylmer or their designate.
Director of Operations
The Director of Operations for the Corporation of the Town of Aylmer or their designate.
Page 2 of 7
Significant Weather Event
An approaching or occurring weather hazard with the potential to pose a significant
danger to users of the highways within a municipality.
Town
The Corporation of the Town of Aylmer.
Weather Hazard
A type of condition (weather or environmental) that has a negative impact on the safety
and security of the public.
4. Policy Statement
The Town of Aylmer is committed to maintaining the safety and accessibility of its
roadways, sidewalks, and municipal infrastructure in accordance with the Minimum
Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways. A Significant Weather Event may be
declared when hazardous weather conditions - such as heavy snowfall, freezing rain,
high winds, or extreme temperatures - affect the Town's ability to meet its maintenance
requirements within the standard timelines.
5. Roles and Responsibilities
The Director of Operations and/or their designate:
- May declare a Significant Weather Event, pursuant to Regulation 239/02,
Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways (MMS) for any or all
weather hazards listed in the Procedures section of this policy on roadways
maintained by the Town of Aylmer;
- May declare the end of the Significant Weather Event when it is determined
appropriate to do so.
The Clerk and/or their designate:
- Shall announce the declaration as well as the end of a Significant Weather Event
in the following ways:
i.
By posting a notice on the Town's website.
ii.
By making an announcement on the Town's social media platform(s).
iii.
By notification through the Aylmer Police Service.
6. Procedure
The following procedure is to be followed:
i.
The Director of Operations and/or their designate may declare a Significant
Weather Event, pursuant to Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance
Standards for Municipal Highways (MMS), for any or all of the following
weather hazards on roadways maintained by the Town of Aylmer:
Page 3 of 7
Weather Alert
Definition
Blizzard Warning
When winds of 40 km/hr or greater are expected to cause
widespread reductions in visibility to 400 metres or less,
due to blowing snow, or blowing now in combination with
falling snow, for at least 4 hours.
Blowing Snow Advisory
When blowing snow, caused by winds of at least 30 km/h,
is expected to reduce visibility to 800 metres or less for at
least 3 hours.
Extreme Cold Warning
When the temperature or wind chill is expected to reach
minus 30°C for at least 2 hours.
Flash Freeze Warning
When significant ice is expected to form on roads,
sidewalks, or other surfaces over much of a region
because of the freezing of residual water from either
melted snow, or falling/fallen rain due to a rapid drop in
temperatures.
Fog Advisory
When low visibilities in fog are expected for at least 6
hours.
Freezing Drizzle Advisory When a period of freezing drizzle is expected for at least
8 hours.
Freezing Rain Warning
When freezing rain is expected to pose a hazard to
transportation or property;
Or
When freezing rain is expected for at least 2 hours.
Frost Advisory
When surface temperatures are expected to fall near
freezing in the overnight period.
Issued during growing season when widespread frost
formation is expected over an extensive area.
Heat Warning
When 2 or more consecutive days of daytime maximum
temperatures are expected to reach 31°C or warmer and
nighttime minimum temperatures are expected to fall to
20°C or warmer;
Or
When 2 or more consecutive days of humidex values are
expected to reach 40 or higher.
Rainfall Warning
Short Duration (Heavy Downpour) Warning
When 50 mm or more of rain is expected within 1 hour.
Page 4 of 7
Weather Alert
Definition
Long Duration Rainfall Warning in the Summer
When 50 mm or more of rain is expected within 24 hours;
Or
When 75 mm or more of rain is expected within 48 hours.
Long Duration Rainfall Warning in Winter
When 25 mm or more of rain is expected within 24 hours.
Severe Thunderstorm
Watch and/or Warning
Severe Thunderstorm Watch
When conditions are favorable for the development of
severe thunderstorms with one or more of the following
conditions:
- Wind gusts of 90 km/hr or greater, which could
cause structural wind damage;
- Hail of 2 cm or larger in diameter; or
- Heavy rainfall, as per the above weather alert.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning
When there is evidence based on radar, satellite pictures,
or from a reliable spotter that any one or more of the
following three weather conditions is imminent or
occurring:
- Wind gusts of 90 km/hr or greater, which could
cause structural wind damage;
- Hail of 2 cm or larger in diameter; or
- Heavy rainfall, as per the above weather alert.
Snowfall Warning
When 15 cm or more of snow falls within 12 hours or less.
Snow Squall Watch
and/or Warning
Snow Squall Watch
When conditions are favorable for the development of
brief periods of very poor visibilities caused by heavy
snow and blowing snow.
Snow Squall Warning
When there is a brief period (less than 1 hour) of very
poor visibility (400 m or less) caused by heavy snow and
blowing snow, and accompanied by strong, gusty winds
of 45 km/hr or greater, is expected to occur with the
passage of a cold front.
Page 5 of 7
Weather Alert
Definition
Tornado Watch and/or
Warning
When conditions are favorable for the development of
severe thunderstorms with one or more tornadoes;
Or
When a tornado has been reported; or when there is
evidence based on radar, or from a reliable spotter that a
tornado is imminent.
Weather Advisory and/or
Warning
Weather Advisory
A generic weather advisory.
Weather Warning
A generic weather warning may be issued for extreme
weather events for which there is no suitable warning
type, because they rarely occur.
A generic weather warning may also be issued for other
weather events during situations where the environment
is vulnerable to pre-existing conditions and any further
weather could result in a significant hazard.
A generic weather warning may also be issued for
situations where the event is not expected to reach
warning criteria values, but there is a special reason for
the warning.
Wind Warning
70 km/hr or more sustained wind; and/or
Gusts to 90 km/hr or more.
Winter Storm Watch
and/or Warning
Winter Storm Watch
When conditions are favorable for the development of
severe and potentially dangerous winter weather,
including:
- A blizzard;
- A major snowfall (25 cm or more within a 24-hour
period); and,
- A significant snowfall combined with other winter
weather hazard types such as: freezing rain,
strong winds, blowing snow and/or extreme wind
chill.
Page 6 of 7
And/or
- Any other factor deemed relevant by the Director of Operation and/or their
designate.
7. Documentation / References
Criteria for Public Weather Alerts, Government of Canada
Ontario Regulation 239/02, Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways
(MMS)
8. Appendix
A - Sample Declaration of a Significant Weather Event Notice
Town of Aylmer Declares a Significant Weather Event
At [TIME] [DATE], the Town of Aylmer officially declared a Significant Weather Event as
per Ontario Regulation 239/02. This declaration applies to all roads within the
geographic boundary of the Town of Aylmer.
The Town is currently responding to the significant snowfall. Declaring a Significant
Weather Event allows the Town to continue road maintenance operations in a safe and
responsible manner during severe and hazardous weather. Town plows will continue to
operate, but the difficult weather conditions can mean road and sidewalk maintenance
may take longer than usual.
All non-essential travel throughout the Town is strongly discouraged. If citizens must
travel, leave plenty of additional time and give snowplows extra space and distance to
operate.
Read the full notice: www.aylmer.ca/news
Page 7 of 7
B - Sample End of a Significant Weather Event Notice
Town of Aylmer Declares End to Significant Weather Event
[TIME] [DATE]
The Significant Weather Event Declaration for the Town of Aylmer has now ended. The
Town of Aylmer Works Department continues to monitor road and weather conditions to
ensure public safety is maintained. Thank you to all residents for their patience during
this time.
37
SCHEDULE "J" BY-LAW 68-12 WINTER ROAD PATROL SERVICES
AGREEMENT
Docusign Envelope ID: E5FD373B-A68A-4885-833E-1 B2208E3BBDE
Town of Aylmer on the Winter Maintenance Patrol Roads identified in Schedule "A" of
this Agreement with respect to snow accumulation, ice, and other swface hazards. For
clarity, Winter Road Patrol Maintenance does not impose any obligation on the Township
of Jyfalahide to respond to any issues it identifies on the Winter Maintenance Patrol Roads
including undertaking any maintenance or winter control measures required for those
roads to meet the Minimum Maintenance Standards.
4.
Section 9.0 of the Agreement is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:
9.1 Both Malahide and Aylmer shall, during the entire term of this Agreement, obtain and
maintain their own comprehensive general liability insurance policies subject to limits
of not less than ten million dollars ($10,000,000.00) per incident. Such policies shall
provide insurance coverage for and including bodily injury, death, and property damage
including loss of use thereof as sustained in connection with the performance of
services and/or obligations that are undertaken pursuant to this Agreement. Each Party's
insurance policy shall be with an insurer that is acceptable to the other Party, acting
reasonably. All policies shall include a provision whereby the other Party shall be
provided with (30) days' notice of an insurer's intention to cancel any policy.
9. 2 Each Party shall furnish the other Party with copies of their respective Certificate of
Insurance issued in respect of the insurance policy required pursuant to this Agreement
and each Party shall be provided with thirty (30) days' notice of an insurer's intention to
cancel any policy.
5.
Section 11.0 of the Agreement is hereby deleted and replaced with the following:
11.1 The Township of Malahide hereby indemnifies and holds harmless the Town of
Aylmer, its elected officials, councillors, employees, contractors, sub-contractors, agents
and any other persons for whom the Township of Aylmer may be responsible in law
(collectively, the "Town Indemnified Persons''), from and against any and all demands,
direct or indirect damages, incidental damages, and special damages, or any suits, claims,
causes of actions and judgements for damages or losses sustained or incurred by other
persons, in relation to death, injury or damage to property including without limitation,
court costs, arbitration fees, penalties, fines, amounts paid in settlement of claim and legal
fees and expenses of investigations as may be incurred or sustained by the Town
Indemnified Persons or which any of them may suffer or become liable for, as a result of
any gross negligence of the Township of Mala hide arising directly from the pe1formance
or non-performance of any of its obligations under the terms of this Agreement.
11.2 The Town of Aylmer hereby indemnifies and holds harmless the Township of
Malahide, its elected officials, councillors, employees, contractors, sub-contractors,
agents and any other persons for whom the Township of Malahide may be responsible in
law (collectively, the "Township Indemnified Persons''), from and against any and all
demands, direct or indirect damages, incidental damages, and special damages, or any
suits, claims, causes of actions and judgements for damages or losses sustained or incurred
by other persons, in relation to death, injury or damage to property including without
limitation, court costs, arbitration fees, penalties,fines, amounts paid in settlement of claim
Mayor
Dominique Giguère
38
SCHEDULE "K" SALT MANAGEMENT PLAN
1
Town of Aylmer
Salt Management Plan
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
Revised - June 2025
2
Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................... 3
1.1 Overview ................................................................................................................ 3
1.2 Purpose of the Salt Management Plan (SMP) ....................................................... 3
1.3 Responsibility......................................................................................................... 4
2.0 SALT MANAGEMENT POLICY................................................................................. 4
2.1 The Town of Aylmer Road Maintenance Policy ..................................................... 4
2.2 Implementation ...................................................................................................... 4
3.0 WINTER MAINTENANCE STANDARDS .................................................................. 5
3.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 5
3.2 Maintenance Standards ......................................................................................... 5
4.0 SALT MANAGEMENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES ................................................ 11
4.1 Best Practices ...................................................................................................... 11
4.2 Annual Reports .................................................................................................... 12
4.3 Salt Management Plans ....................................................................................... 12
4.4 Salt Storage Sites ................................................................................................ 12
4.5 Salt Application .................................................................................................... 12
4.6 Snow Disposal ..................................................................................................... 13
4.7 Training ................................................................................................................ 13
4.8 Equipment ........................................................................................................... 13
4.9 Weather Forecasting ........................................................................................... 14
4.10 Communications ................................................................................................ 14
4.11 Record Keeping ................................................................................................. 14
4.12 Salt Vulnerable Areas ........................................................................................ 14
5.0 CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................ 15
3
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1
Overview
The Town of Aylmer has approximately 48 kms of roads within the Corporation's
jurisdiction. The Town is dedicated to providing a safe transportation system for all
road users.
Snow and ice control is a key part in keeping our roads safe. Road salts (particularly
sodium chloride) are the preferred de-icing/ anti-icing chemicals for maintaining winter
roadway safety due to its cost, effectiveness, and ease of handling. The Town, like
other road authorities, uses road salt to fulfill its obligations under the Municipal Act and
to maintain safe roads for the travelling public during the winter.
In 2001, Environment Canada released an assessment report indicating that road salts
are entering the environment in large amounts and posing a risk to plants, animals,
birds, fish, lake and stream ecosystems and groundwater. The report recommended
that salt be designated toxic under the Canadian Environment Protection Act (CEPA).
Environment Canada has stated they will not ban road salts, but rather they will
encourage users in developing a management strategy. It must be noted that Health
Canada stated that road salts are not harmful to humans.
In recognition of the adverse effects that excessive use of roads salt can have on the
environment, the Salt Management Plan will strive to minimize the amount of road salt
entering the environment and research the use of alternatives to road salt in winter
maintenance.
It is impossible to eliminate the use of road salts all together. The Town's objective is to
fiscally manage road salt, research the alternatives and endeavour try to lower the use
of salt without ever infringing on public safety.
1.2 Purpose of the Salt Management Plan (SMP)
The Salt Management Plan is intended to demonstrate the commitment of the road
authority to reduce potential negative environmental effects by managing the Town's
salt usage and to remain consistent with Environment Canada's stated objectives.
All modifications to winter maintenance activities will be carried out in a way that
balances the use of road salts while maintaining safety for road users and complying
with the requirements of the Provincial Minimum Maintenance Standards.
The Salt Management Plan is intended to be a living document to incorporate new
approaches and technologies while meeting fiscal demands and keeping road safety as
the first priority. The SMP will be reviewed annually in this context and updated every
five years with endorsement from Aylmer Council.
4
1.3 Responsibility
It is the responsibility of the Town to ensure that the Salt Management Plan is
developed, maintained, updated and implemented throughout the Town of Aylmer. The
Town is also responsible to ensure winter maintenance personnel receive appropriate
training.
It is the responsibility of all Road Supervisors involved in winter maintenance to ensure
that the Salt Management Plan is maintained, and implemented throughout the Town of
Aylmer.
It is the responsibility of the Town of Aylmer that Winter Maintenance Equipment
Operators and patrol persons receive appropriate training, and that equipment is
calibrated annually. All personnel are to ensure that they carry out their winter
maintenance duties in accordance with the policies and procedures set out in the Salt
Management Plan and the Code of Practice for the Environmental Management of
Road Salts.
2.0 SALT MANAGEMENT POLICY
2.1 The Town of Aylmer Road Maintenance Policy
The Town of Aylmer currently uses the Municipal Act, 2001 Provincial
O. Reg. 239/02- "Minimum Maintenance Standards for Municipal Highways"
It is the corporation's intent to take the actions necessary to manage road salts in a
manner that protects the environment without compromising road safety
2.2
Implementation
To meet the objectives of the Town's Road Maintenance Policy the corporation will:
- Manage road salts in accordance with the Code of Practice for the Environmental
Management of Road Salts.
- Keep employees and the public informed about the environmental practices related
to road salts.
- Comply with applicable laws and regulations.
- Conduct regular management reviews and recommend improvements wherever
feasible.
- Periodically review and analyze industry practices.
- Educate and train staff.
- Monitor and analyze operations.
- Revise policy and practices.
5
As practices and procedures to improve winter maintenance develop, the Town will
make improvements to the Salt Management Plan striving to reduce the effects of road
salt in our environment.
3.0 WINTER MAINTENANCE STANDARDS
3.1 Introduction
This chapter documents the Town of Aylmer's snow and ice control standards.
The major activities related to winter maintenance are
- Salt and sand storage;
- Salt spreading;
- Blended sand spreading;
- Snow plowing; and
- Snow removal and disposal.
3.2 Maintenance Standards
Patrolling
1) The minimum standard for the frequency of patrolling of highways to check for
conditions described in this Regulation is set out in the Table to this section. O. Reg.
239/10, s. 3 (1); O. Reg. 366/18, s. 3 (2).
2) If it is determined by the municipality that the weather monitoring referred to in
section 3.1 indicates that there is a substantial probability of snow accumulation on
roadways, ice formation on roadways or icy roadways, the standard for patrolling
highways is, in addition to that set out in subsection (1), to patrol highways that the
municipality selects as representative of its highways, at intervals deemed
necessary by the municipality, to check for such conditions. O. Reg. 47/13, s. 2; O.
Reg. 366/18, s. 3 (2).
3)
Patrolling a highway consists of observing the highway, either by driving on or
by electronically monitoring the highway, and may be performed by persons
responsible for patrolling highways or by persons responsible for or performing
highway maintenance activities. O. Reg. 23/10, s. 3 (1).
4) This section does not apply in respect of the conditions described in section 10,
subsections 11 (0.1) and 12 (1) and section 16.1, 16.2, 16.3 or 16.4. O. Reg. 23/10.
6
TABLE
PATROLLING FREQUENCY
Class of Highway
Patrolling Frequency
1
3 times every 7 days
2
2 times every 7 days
3
once every 7 days
4
once every 14 days
5
once every 30 days
Snow Accumulation
For the purpose of planning the winter plowing operations, the Town recognizes Ontario
Regulation 239/02 Section 4.
ONTARIO REGULATION 239/02-SECTION 4
Snow accumulation, roadways
4. (1) Subject to section 4.1, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on
roadways
is,
(a) after becoming aware of the fact that the snow accumulation on a roadway is
greater than the depth set out in the Table to this section, to deploy resources as
soon
as
practicable
to
address
the
snow
accumulation;
and
(b) after the snow accumulation has ended, to address the snow accumulation so
as to reduce the snow to a depth less than or equal to the depth set out in the
Table within the time set out in the Table,
(i) to provide a minimum lane width of the lesser of three metres for each
lane or the actual lane width, or
(ii) on a Class 4 or Class 5 highway with two lanes, to provide a total width
of at least five metres. O. Reg. 47/13, s. 4; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 5 (1).
(2) If the depth of snow accumulation on a roadway is less than or equal to the
depth set out in the Table to this section, the roadway is deemed to be in a state
of repair with respect to snow accumulation. O. Reg. 47/13, s. 4.
(3) For the purposes of this section, the depth of snow accumulation on a
roadway and, if applicable, lane width under clause (1) (b), may be determined in
accordance with subsection (4) by a municipal employee, agent or contractor,
whose duties or responsibilities include one or more of the following:
1. Patrolling highways.
2. Performing highway maintenance activities.
3. Supervising staff who perform activities described in paragraph 1 or
2. O. Reg. 47/13, s. 4; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 5 (2).
7
(4) The depth of snow accumulation on a roadway and lane width may be
determined by,
(a) performing an actual measurement;
(b) monitoring the weather; or
(c) performing a visual estimate. O. Reg. 47/13, s. 4; O. Reg. 366/18, s. 5
(3).
(5) For the purposes of this section, addressing snow accumulation on a roadway
includes,
(a) plowing the roadway;
(b) salting the roadway;
(c) applying abrasive materials to the roadway;
(d) applying other chemical or organic agents to the roadway;
(e) any combination of the methods described in clauses (a) to (d). O.
Reg. 366/18, s. 5 (4).
(6) This section does not apply to that portion of the roadway,
(a) designated for parking;
(b) consisting of a bicycle lane or other bicycle facility; or
(c) used by a municipality for snow storage. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 5 (4).
TABLE
SNOW ACCUMULATION - ROADWAYS
Class of Highway
Depth
Time
1
2.5m
4 hours
2
5 cm
6 hours
3
8 cm
12 hours
4
8cm
16 hours
5
10 cm
24 hours
Snow accumulation on roadways, significant weather event
4.1 (1) If a municipality declares a significant weather event relating to snow
accumulation, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on roadways until the
declaration of the end of the significant weather event is,
(a) to monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1; and
(b) if deemed practicable by the municipality, to deploy resources to address
snow accumulation on roadways, starting from the time that the municipality
deems appropriate to do so. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(2) If the municipality complies with subsection (1), all roadways within the
municipality are deemed to be in a state of repair with respect to snow
accumulation until the applicable time in the Table to section 4 expires following
the declaration of the end of the significant weather event by the municipality. O.
8
Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(3) Following the end of the weather hazard in respect of which a significant
weather event was declared by a municipality under subsection (1), the
municipality shall,
(a) declare the end of the significant weather event when the municipality
determines it is appropriate to do so; and
(b) address snow accumulation on roadways in accordance with section
4. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
Snow accumulation, bicycle lanes
4.2 (1) Subject to section 4.3, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on bicycle
lanes
is,
(a) after becoming aware of the fact that the snow accumulation on a
bicycle lane is greater than the depth set out in the Table to this section, to
deploy resources as soon as practicable to address the snow
accumulation;
and
(b) after the snow accumulation has ended, to address the snow
accumulation so as to reduce the snow to a depth less than or equal to the
depth set out in the Table to this section to provide a minimum bicycle
lane width of the lesser of 1 metre or the actual bicycle lane width. O. Reg.
366/18,
s.
7.
(2) If the depth of snow accumulation on a bicycle lane is less than or equal to
the depth set out in the Table to this section, the bicycle lane is deemed to be in
a state of repair in respect of snow accumulation. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(3) For the purposes of this section, the depth of snow accumulation on a bicycle
lane and, if applicable, lane width under clause (1) (b), may be determined in the
same manner as set out in subsection 4 (4) and by the persons mentioned in
subsection 4 (3), with necessary modifications. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(4) For the purposes of this section, addressing snow accumulation on a bicycle
lane
includes,
(a) plowing the bicycle lane;
(b) salting the bicycle lane;
(c) applying abrasive materials to the bicycle lane;
(d) applying other chemical or organic agents to the bicycle lane;
(e) sweeping the bicycle lane; or
(f) any combination of the methods described in clauses (a) to (e). O. Reg.
366/18, s. 7.
9
TABLE
SNOW ACCUMULATION - BICYCLE LANES
Class of Highway
Depth
Time
1
2.5m
8 hours
2
5 cm
12 hours
3
8 cm
24 hours
4
8cm
24 hours
5
10 cm
24 hours
Snow accumulation on bicycle lanes, significant weather event
4.3 (1) If a municipality declares a significant weather event relating to snow
accumulation, the standard for addressing snow accumulation on bicycle lanes until the
declaration
of
the
end
of
the
significant
weather
event
is,
(a) to monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1; and
(b) if deemed practicable by the municipality, to deploy resources to
address snow accumulation on bicycle lanes, starting from the time that
the municipality deems appropriate to do so. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(2) If the municipality complies with subsection (1), all bicycle lanes within the
municipality are deemed to be in a state of repair with respect to snow
accumulation until the applicable time in the Table to section 4.2 expires
following the declaration of the end of the significant weather event by the
municipality. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
(3) Following the end of the weather hazard in respect of which a significant
weather event was declared by a municipality under subsection (1), the
municipality
shall,
(a) declare the end of the significant weather event when the municipality
determines it is appropriate to do so; and
(b) address snow accumulation on bicycle lanes in accordance with
section 4.2. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 7.
Ice formation on roadways and icy roadways
For the purpose of planning the winter spreading operations, the Town recognizes
Ontario Regulation 239/02, Section 5.
ONTARIO REGULATION 239/02- SECTION 5
10
Ice formation on roadways and icy roadways
5. (1) The standard for the prevention of ice formation on roadways is doing the
following in the 24-hour period preceding an alleged formation of ice on a roadway:
1. Monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1.
2. Patrol in accordance with section 3.
3. If the municipality determines, as a result of its activities under
paragraph 1 or 2, that there is a substantial probability of ice forming on a
roadway, treat the roadway, if practicable, to prevent ice formation within
the time set out in Table 1 to this section, starting from the time that the
municipality determines is the appropriate time to deploy resources for
that purpose. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(2) If the municipality meets the standard set out in subsection (1) and, despite
such compliance, ice forms on a roadway, the roadway is deemed to be in a
state of repair until the applicable time set out in Table 2 to this section expires
after the municipality becomes aware of the fact that the roadway is icy. O. Reg.
366/18, s. 8.
(3) Subject to section 5.1, the standard for treating icy roadways is to treat the icy
roadway within the time set out in Table 2 to this section, and an icy roadway is
deemed to be in a state of repair until the applicable time set out in Table 2 to
this section expires after the municipality becomes aware of the fact that a
roadway is icy. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(4) For the purposes of this section, treating a roadway means applying material
to the roadway, including but not limited to, salt, sand or any combination of salt
and sand. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(5) For greater certainty, this section applies in respect of ice formation on bicycle
lanes on a roadway, but does not apply to other types of bicycle facilities. O.
Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
TABLE
ICY FORMATION PREVENTION
Class of Highway
Time
1
6 hours
2
8 hours
3
16 hours
4
24 hours
5
24 hours
11
TABLE
TREATMENT OF ICY ROADWAYS
Class of Highway
Time
1
3 hours
2
4 hours
3
8 hours
4
12 hours
5
16 hours
Icy roadways, significant weather event
5.1 (1) If a municipality declares a significant weather event relating to ice, the standard
for treating icy roadways until the declaration of the end of the significant weather event
is,
(a) to monitor the weather in accordance with section 3.1; and
(b) if deemed practicable by the municipality, to deploy resources to treat
icy roadways, starting from the time that the municipality deems
appropriate to do so. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(2) If the municipality complies with subsection (1), all roadways within the
municipality are deemed to be in a state of repair with respect to any ice which
forms or may be present until the applicable time in Table 2 to section 5 expires
after the declaration of the end of the significant weather event by the
municipality. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
(3) Following the end of the weather hazard in respect of which a significant
weather event was declared by a municipality under subsection (1), the
municipality shall,
(a) declare the end of the significant weather event when the municipality
determines it is appropriate to do so; and
(b) treat icy roadways in accordance with section 5. O. Reg. 366/18, s. 8.
4.0 SALT MANAGEMENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
4.1 Best Practices
The Canadian Code of Practice for the Environmental Management of Road Salts and
the TAC Syntheses of Best Practices has identified Best Management Practices for the
handling, storage, and use of road salts. Code of Practice objectives have been defined
in the following categories: Annual Reports, Salt Management Plans, Salt Storage, Salt
Application, Snow Disposal, Training and Salt Vulnerable Areas.
12
4.2 Annual Reports
The Town of Aylmer is responsible to report their salt use and management over the
previous winter season to the County of Elgin annually and by May 1st each calendar
year. This information is reported to Environment Canada annually through the County
of Elgin.
4.3 Salt Management Plans
The Town of Aylmer is responsible for developing a Salt Management Plan that satisfies
the objectives of the Canadian Code of Practice for the Environmental Management of
Road Salts. This plan is updated and approved by Aylmer Council once every 5 years.
4.4 Salt Storage Sites
The objective for salt storage sites is the prevention or control of releases from existing
and new sites. In pursuing this objective, the following practices should be considered:
- Coverage of salt piles and blended salt-sand piles
- Handling practices that avoid controlled releases
- Wash water collection and treatment
- Training of personnel, and
- Monitoring the effectiveness of the facility
The Town of Aylmer stores salt materials under cover and on impermeable surfaces
and continually cleans up any spilled materials as good housekeeping practices. The
Town of Aylmer currently has indoor salt and outdoor sand storage. The Town currently
removes snow from specific areas within its jurisdiction and disposes of it at an existing
snow disposal site.
Town of Aylmer Public Works Department at 32 Chipchase Court, retains 80 tonnes of
salt storage.
4.5 Salt Application
The objective for salt application is the reduction of the negative impacts of road salts by
delivering the right amount of road salts in the right place at the right time. In pursuing
this objective, consideration should be given to using the most recent advancements in
the application of winter maintenance anti-icing and de-icing materials, winter
maintenance equipment and road weather information and other decision support
systems. As well, the training of personnel and the monitoring of the effectiveness of
road salt application techniques should be considered.
13
The Town of Aylmer utilizes ground spreading controls and has automated vehicle
location systems on their entire fleet dedicated to winter control. The Town of Aylmer
does not pre-wet salt or use pre-treated salt; sodium chloride is used.
4.6 Snow Disposal
The objective for snow disposal is the control of releases from existing and new sites. In
pursuing this objective, the following practices should be considered:
- Location and construction of the sites considering operational and environmental
factors
- Drainage management
- Training of personnel
- Monitoring of the effectiveness of the facility
The Town of Aylmer uses the parking lots of Steen Park and Optimist Park as snow
disposal sites. Best efforts are made to keep the snow as far away from Catfish Creek
as possible. This is done by first using the parking lot at Steen Park until it reaches
capacity. Following this, the northern half of the Optimist Park parking lot is used
maintaining a maximum distance back from the creek bank.
4.7 Training
Annual winter maintenance training is provided to Town of Aylmer employees to ensure
staff are informed of their responsibilities and updates to the Salt Management Plan.
4.8 Equipment
The Town of Aylmer's current list of equipment is as follows:
No.
Year
Make
Type
Snow Control
Equipment
Accessory
Equipment
18
2019
Freightliner
5-ton single axle
Plow/sander
Manual sander
22
2010
Peterbilt
5-ton single axel
Plow/sander
Manual sander
23
2016
International 3-ton single axle
Plow
9
2022
Ford
1 ton
Plow
16
1989
John Deere
Tractor
Snow blower
10
2005
Trackless
Sidewalk tractor
Plow/sander
and blower
Manual Sander
20
2016
Case
Tractor/backhoe
Plow
The Town of Aylmer has the following Electronics:
- Truck-mounted infra-red thermometers
- Two-way radio systems
- Cellular phones
14
- Answering service for after hours calls
- Pagers for standby personnel
4.9 Weather Forecasting
The Town of Aylmer uses the Environment Canada website to monitor weather
conditions.
4.10 Communications
4.10.1 Internal Communications
All employees are equipped with two-way radios for internal communication.
Road Supervisors are equipped with two-way radios as well as cellphones.
4.10.2 External Communications
The main system in place for informing the public and/or responding to general
inquiries related to road maintenance is through the Town's website
www.aylmer.ca and social media platforms. The Salt Management Plan is
available to the public on the Town website.
4.11 Record Keeping
The Town keeps operator logs, surface condition reports, and tracks solid material
purchases and usage.
4.12 Salt Vulnerable Areas
A "salt vulnerable area" means an area particularly sensitive to road salts where
additional salt management measures may be necessary to mitigate the environmental
effects of road salts in that area. Additional salt management measures in identified salt
vulnerable areas include:
- Using technologies that further optimize the use of road salts
- Using environmentally, technically and economically feasible alternatives to road
salts
- Increasing monitoring and measuring of chlorides and/or their impacts
- Locating patrol yards and snow disposal sites outside vulnerable areas
- Considering location and protection of vulnerable areas in the design of new
roads and/or upgrading of existing roads.
The Town of Aylmer works with agencies such as the Conservation Authorities, Ministry
of Natural Resources, and the Ministry of the Environment to identify vulnerable areas
and to develop strategies to reduce salt impacts to salt vulnerable areas. Currently,
there are no identified salt vulnerable areas in Aylmer.
15
5.0 CONCLUSION
The Town of Aylmer is dedicated to maintaining the Town roads for the safety of the
public in accordance with provincial regulations. Winter control activities utilizing road
salt is necessary to achieve this goal. The Town of Aylmer recognizes that excessive
use of road salt can have environmental impacts.
39
APPENDIX "A" WINTER MANAGEMENT RESPONSE FORM
CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AYLMER
PUBLIC WORKS DEPARTMENT
WINTER MANAGEMENT RESPONSE FORM
DATE:
TIME START:
CALL BACK REQUEST BY:
TIME:
EMPLOYEE(S):
CURRENT WEATHER CONDITIONS:
APPROXIMATE ACCUMULATION:
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF ROADS CONDITION:
ACTION TAKEN:
Location
Plow/Sand
Priority #1A - # 53, 73, 3
Priority #1B - Streets
Priority #2 Streets
Parking Lots
SPECIAL NOTES:
TIME FINISHED:
40
APPENDIX "B" STREET SURFACE CONDITION WINTER REPORT
FORM
Date: / /
Report Completed By:
M D Y
Category
Time
Bare/Dry
Bare/Wet
Track Bare
Dusting
< 80 mm Snow
> 80 mm Snow
Light Drifting
Heavy Drifting
Ice Patches
Freezing Rain
Solid Ice
Snow Packed
Streets
AM
Priority #1A
AM
PM
AM
Priority #1B
AM
PM
AM
Priority #2
AM
PM
Sidewalks
AM
Priority #1A
AM
PM
AM
Priority #1B
AM
PM
AM
Priority #2
AM
PM
Precipitation (Rain, Snow etc.)
AM
AM
PM
Notes/Remarks:
C
C
Time:
AM
AM
PM
THE CORPORATION OF THE TOWN OF AYLMER
Street Surface Condition - Winter Report
Weather Conditons
Temperature:
C