Surrey Winter Forecast Calls for More Snow, Lower Temps

Surrey Braces for Wetter, Colder Winter as La Niña Sets In

Surrey is preparing for a winter season with above-normal precipitation and slightly lower temperatures, according to new projections presented at council on November 17. Engineering GM Scott Neuman shared the update in a corporate report, noting the impacts of light La Niña conditions expected this winter.

Surrey’s Winter Response Fleet

The city has 78 snow-clearing vehicles ready to maintain nearly 4,000 lane-kilometres of priority roads, including:

• Arterials
• Major collectors
• Steep hills
• School zones
• Care centres

Surrey’s winter maintenance budget for 2025 is $4.63 million, with $1.34 million spent so far.

Neuman said the city remains on track to stay within budget if temperatures stay favourable for the remainder of the season.

No Road Salt Shortages

Unlike some nearby municipalities, Surrey has faced no issues with road salt supply since expanding storage to 17,000 tonnes in 2010.

Who Clears Sidewalks?

Under Section 80 of the Highway and Traffic By-law, clearing snow from:

• Sidewalks
• Multi-use paths
• Bus stops
• Parking lots

is the responsibility of adjacent property owners—a policy common across Canada.

“It wouldn’t be feasible for the City to clear all sidewalks in a timely fashion,” Neuman said.

Council Questions Provincial Coordination

Councillor Rob Stutt praised staff for their “herculean” work and asked whether Surrey could plow provincial roads with reimbursement.

Neuman said staff already plow right up to provincial highway boundaries and meet regularly with provincial contractors to maintain consistent service on critical routes.

Accessibility Concerns in Cul-de-Sacs

Councillor Pardeep Kooner raised concerns about clogged cul-de-sacs near senior homes and questioned whether Surrey could use no-parking-when-snowing signage.

Neuman said staff can explore options for hillside areas but emphasized that fronting businesses and residents must keep sidewalks clear.

Reducing Salt in Waterways

Councillor Doug Elford asked about preventing road salt from reaching storm drains. Neuman noted efforts to keep salt and brine out of ditches and waterways to reduce environmental impact.

Live Road Conditions Available

Residents can check Surrey’s Traffic Hub for real-time road and weather conditions.
The city monitors roads using 500+ traffic cameras, helping avoid unnecessary salting and ensuring the most critical areas are prioritized.

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