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Snow Plowing

Edwards Metropolitan District (EMD) collaborates with multiple agencies to ensure efficient snow plowing and safe road conditions throughout the winter. This guide clarifies responsibilities and offers helpful information for residents about snow removal.

Who Handles Snow Removal?

Eagle County Road & Bridge Department

The Eagle County Road & Bridge Department manages snow removal and road maintenance for county roads within the District, including:

  • Plowing public roads maintained by the County.
  • Applying sand and de-icing materials for better traction and reduced icy conditions.
  • Clearing roads on a priority basis, starting with main thoroughfares and high-traffic areas, then moving to residential streets.

Find more details about Eagle County’s snow removal policies and timelines here.

 

Eagle County ECO Trails

ECO Trails handles snow removal for certain County-managed areas, such as sidewalks, trails, and recreational paths. Their responsibilities include:

  • Clearing recreational paths to ensure accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.

 

Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT)

CDOT is responsible for state highways and interstates, including:

  • Plowing and maintaining safe conditions on highways.
  • Broad clearing operations that may push snow back onto adjacent private properties.

 

Edwards Metropolitan District

EMD oversees snow removal for District-managed areas, including:

  • Clearing sidewalks and recreational paths for safe pedestrian and cyclist use.
  • Coordinating with contractors and other agencies to ensure effective snow management.

If you’re unsure whether a road or sidewalk falls under EMD’s jurisdiction, Contact Us for assistance.

Important Notes for Residents

  • Driveways and Private Roads: Snow removal on private property, including driveways and private roads, is the responsibility of the property owner.
  • Parking Restrictions: Avoid parking on streets during heavy snowfall to allow snowplows to operate efficiently.
  • Reporting Issues:
    • For county roads, contact Eagle County Road & Bridge Department at (970) 328-3540.
    • For District-maintained areas, reach out to EMD at Contact Us.

Snow Removal Laws and Resident Responsibilities

To ensure safety and compliance with Colorado laws:

  • Do not deposit snow on public roadways.
    • Colorado Revised Statute 43-5-301 prohibits plowing, blowing, or shoveling snow onto public highways, ditches, or rights-of-way (ROW).
    • Violations may result in fines, civil liabilities, or jail time if snow placement causes hazards or accidents.

Key Hazards of Improper Snow Placement

  • Slippery areas, frozen ruts, and sight obstructions.
  • Impaired drainage and drifting.
  • Blocked crosswalks, intersections, and driveways.

Resident Responsibilities

  • Clear driveways and sidewalks within 24 hours of a snowstorm.
  • Deposit snow onto your property, not onto public streets, to minimize icy conditions and ensure proper drainage.
  • Clear areas near driveways to reduce snow berms created by plows.

Additional Resources

  • Learn more about Colorado snow removal laws and property owner responsibilities here.