Q. When will the County plow my street?
A. Roads are cleared in the following order - Main arteries and feeder roads first, such as Joppa Road and Goucher Blvd., Owings Mills Blvd and Lyons Mill Rd., followed by community/subdivision streets, courts and cul-de-sacs.
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Q. How long will it take to clear the streets?
A. Snow storms of less than 6 inches should allow crews to plow every street within 24 hours after the storm has ended. With a storm of 6 inches or more, it typically takes 48 hours to plow every street after the storm has ended. During a very heavy snowfall, plows may need to be diverted from secondary roads repeatedly to concentrate on keeping main roads open.
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Q. Who do I call if my street has been missed?
A. After following the above timeline, the Bureau of Highways can be contacted at 410-887-3560.
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Q. Why does my Driveway get plowed back in?
A.Every effort is made to clear roads and storm drains to prevent icing conditions if remaining snow melts and refreezes. Snowplows are angled to the right. Residents can help by shoveling snow to the right of their driveway or into their yards. It's the best way to minimize the amount that may get plowed back into their driveway.
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Q. Does the County plow Alleys or Private Roads?
A. Alleys and private roads do not receive County service. By law, snow removal and other maintenance are the responsibility of the owner(s). Owners of new homes are advised to call their developer or property manager before snow season to determine if their road is private or has been transferred into the County roads system.
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Q. Will my Trash or Recycling be collected?
A. In most cases, the refuse/recycling collector will make every effort to collect the scheduled item(s) if the road or alley in your area is passable. You should set your items out as usual. In unusual or extreme cases, alternate plans may be made. You may call the Bureau of Solid Waste Management at 410-887-2000.
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Revised May 9, 2005
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