What Is a Windrow and Who Clears It?

Short answer: A windrow is the ridge of heavy, packed snow a city plow leaves across the end of your driveway as it clears the street. Clearing it is generally the homeowner’s job. Some cities run windrow programs for eligible residents, and many private snow plans include windrow clearing.

Why windrows are so hard to move

The city plow pushes snow from the whole street width to the side, and it compacts as it goes. A windrow can be much heavier than the snow on your driveway, often mixed with slush and salt, and it freezes quickly. It is the reason many people clear the driveway once and then find themselves stuck an hour later.

Who clears it

• You, by default. In most cities the end of the driveway is the owner’s responsibility.
• City windrow programs. Some municipalities offer windrow clearing for eligible residents, such as seniors or people with disabilities, often with registration in the fall. Check your city’s website.
• Your snow contractor. Many residential plans include a return visit for the windrow after the city plow passes.

Tips if you clear it yourself

1. Clear it soon after the plow passes, before it freezes.
2. Shovel small loads; windrow snow is dense.
3. Pile it on your side of the driveway, not back onto the road.
4. Clear a space on the upstream side of the driveway to catch some of the next pass.

What to avoid

• Pushing windrow snow back onto the street, which is often against city bylaws.
• Lifting heavy, icy chunks with a twisting motion.

When to call a professional

Ask for windrow clearing in your residential snow removal plan, and it will be part of your route.

Questions homeowners ask

Why does the plow always come after I finish?

Residential streets are plowed after main roads, often hours after the snow stops.

Can a contractor come back just for the windrow?

Yes, that is what windrow clearing means in a plan.

Is windrow snow salty?

Often, which is why it should not be piled on lawns or beds.