Snow Removal

Due to temperature, timing, and severity of the storm, every winter event is different. In a lighter storm, less than 2-inches, salting is the main tool in treating the roads. In a more significant storm, salt is applied, after 2-inches or more has accumulated plowing will begin. When the storm is over, another application of salt may also be needed.

The Public Works Department's aim is to keep roads passable. Please understand that sometimes they may not be completely free of ice and snow. That's why it is so important to know your winter driving abilities as well as how your vehicle performs before winter strikes.

During heavy storms, our advice is to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary, but if you must travel, please be sure you and your vehicle are prepared.

Before winter weather arrives, motorists should check all fluids, lights, brakes, battery, hoses, belts, windshield wipers that don't streak, and tires for sufficient tread and pressure. It is always good to travel with a flashlight, jumper cables, cell phone, snow shovel, first aid supplies, ice scraper, warm gloves, extra clothing, sand, and bottled water. YES, You are now prepared!

Remember to always remove snow and ice from the hood and roof of your vehicle. Pennsylvania State law states that if snow or ice from your vehicle strikes another vehicle or person and causes death or injury, you can be ticketed. State law also requires you to turn on your head lights when your windshield wipers are on.

Our Township goal is to get everyone through another winter season SAFELY!

Please help us, help you during a snow event by doing the following: Once snow accumulates three (3) inches or more and until the roadway is cleared by the Public Works Department or PennDOT, no vehicle, trailer or camper may be parked along the roadway.

It is impossible for snowplows to avoid having snow placed at the bottom of driveways. Unfortunately, this is the reality of snow removal.

Keeping sidewalks safe is an important winter concern. Please clear snow, sleet and ice from sidewalks in front of your property no more than 24 hours after a storm.

Please do not shovel, blow or plow the snow from your driveway and/or sidewalks into the street.

Remove trash and recycling cans from the roadway to avoid damages.

Keep the storm water inlet open near your property. Keeping it open will prevent flooding and icing conditions on the road.

If you have a fire hydrant on your property, please help the Fire Company help you by clearing 3 feet in all directions so it is visible from the road and easily accessible to connect a fire hose. Snow accumulation or the result of plowing and snow clearing can completely cover or restrict access to fire hydrants.

To avoid any interruption in your mail service from the post office, please remove all snow from in front of your mailbox. Additionally, check that your mailbox and post are in good repair and that they are behind the curb, not leaning out over the street and that your house number is not blocked.

The Road Crew works extremely hard to make traveling on Township roads safe for everyone. Please be patient and allow time for them to arrive in your area and effectively remove snow and ice from the streets.

What is a Snow Emergency?
Declaring a Snow Emergency in the Township helps ensure the safety and efficiency of the employees working to remove the snow and ice. When Plainfield Township declares a "Snow Emergency" it is broadcast on radio, the Township website and other social media. If the Township declares a Snow Emergency parking on all Township streets is prohibited pursuant to the Code of Plainfield Township. It also provides better and easier access to roads for police, fire and emergency medical services vehicle access as this becomes a very busy time for our emergency responders.

No vehicles shall be parked to impede or obstruct snow/ice removal efforts or create a hazardous condition.

Please remove cars, trailers, boat or campers as well as trash cans and recycle containers from the street.

Sidewalks should be cleared or covered with salt or similar substances or materials within 24 hours after the cessation of the snow/ice event.

If possible, please stay off the roadways and allow crews to clear the roads. If you are out on the roadways and come upon downed wires DO NOT approach or touch them.

Plainfield Township appreciates your cooperation and hopes that all residents understand that a snow emergency is not intended to inconvenience but rather to be helpful in promoting the most effective and efficient removal of snow and ice from the Township roads.