Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Winter parking violations cost Ottawa drivers over $2 million in fines last season alone, with 16,053 citations issued across just three overnight bans during the 2024-25 winter period.
Navigating Ottawa’s winter driving and parking regulations requires understanding the intricate system of overnight bans, permit requirements, and safety measures the City implements each snow season. Whether you’re a longtime resident or newcomer to Canada’s capital, this comprehensive 2025 guide covers everything you need to avoid costly fines, protect your vehicle from towing, and drive safely through Ottawa’s harshest weather conditions. From understanding parking ban schedules to selecting the best winter tires and accessing free salt and sand locations, this resource ensures you’re fully prepared for whatever this winter brings.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa’s overnight parking ban runs 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM during declared snow events. Violations cost $125 ($105 early payment) plus potential towing fees of $150-$250. Check ban status via ottawa.ca, 311, or @OttawaBylaw on Twitter. Winter tires aren’t legally mandated in Ontario but qualify for 2-10% insurance discounts. Install winter tires by early November and switch back after April.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Ban Hours | 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM |
| Parking Fine | $125 ($105 early payment) |
| Towing Fees | $150-$250 + $25-$50/day storage |
| 2024-25 Citations | 16,053 across 3 bans |
| On-Street Permit | $130/month (Dec-Mar) |
| Ban Status | ottawa.ca, 311, @OttawaBylaw |
Understanding Ottawa’s Winter Parking Ban System
Ottawa’s winter parking ban system exists to enable efficient snow removal operations across the city’s extensive road network. When significant snowfall threatens road safety, the City declares an overnight parking ban requiring all vehicles to vacate streets during designated hours.
The winter parking ban season officially runs from November 15 through April 1 each year, though bans are only declared when snow conditions warrant. Not every winter night triggers a ban—the City declares bans strategically based on forecasted snowfall amounts and the need for comprehensive plowing operations.
During declared bans, parking is prohibited on all City streets from 7:00 PM until 7:00 AM the following morning. This 12-hour window provides snow removal crews unobstructed access to plow, salt, and clear roadways before morning rush hour. Roads cluttered with parked vehicles force plows to navigate around obstacles, leaving snow banks that later become hazardous ice formations.
The City typically declares 10-15 overnight bans per winter season, depending on snowfall patterns. The 2024-25 season saw three bans declared through early winter, resulting in 16,053 parking violation citations—a stark reminder that enforcement remains active and effective.
How to Check Parking Ban Status
Staying informed about parking ban declarations requires monitoring official City channels. Multiple methods ensure you never miss a ban announcement.
ottawa.ca/parking: The City’s official website displays current parking ban status prominently on the homepage during winter months. The site updates immediately when bans are declared, typically by mid-afternoon for same-day evening bans.
311 Ottawa: Call 311 or use the 311 Ottawa mobile app for parking ban information. The automated system provides current ban status 24 hours daily. During ban declarations, 311 receives high call volumes, so check early or use alternative methods during peak times.
@OttawaBylaw on Twitter/X: Ottawa By-law and Regulatory Services tweets ban declarations and updates in real-time. Follow this account and enable notifications to receive immediate alerts when bans are declared or lifted.
City of Ottawa email alerts: Subscribe to the City’s email notification service for parking ban announcements delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up at ottawa.ca/en/residents/transportation-and-parking/parking-and-standing-regulations.
Local news media: CTV Ottawa, CBC Ottawa, and CFRA radio broadcast parking ban information during news segments and post updates on their websites and social media channels.
Pro tip: Enable push notifications on the 311 Ottawa app and follow @OttawaBylaw with notifications turned on. This dual approach ensures you receive alerts through multiple channels, reducing the chance of missing critical information.
Parking Violation Fines and Penalties
Ignoring Ottawa’s winter parking ban carries significant financial consequences beyond the base fine. Understanding the complete cost structure motivates compliance.
Base Fine: $125 per violation. This amount applies to any vehicle parked on a City street during declared ban hours. The fine remains constant regardless of vehicle type, location, or duration of violation.
Early Payment Discount: Pay within 7 days of receiving the ticket to reduce the fine to $105. This $20 discount incentivizes prompt payment and reduces administrative processing costs.
Late Payment Penalties: Unpaid tickets accumulate penalties over time. After 15 days, additional administrative fees apply. Extended non-payment can result in license plate denial during vehicle registration renewal, preventing you from legally operating your vehicle.
Towing Fees: Vehicles blocking snow removal operations may be towed at the owner’s expense. Initial towing charges range from $150-$250 depending on vehicle size and tow company rates. Storage fees add $25-$50 per day until vehicle retrieval. A vehicle left in impound for one week could cost $400-$600 in combined towing and storage fees—on top of the parking ticket.
2024-25 Season Statistics: The first three overnight bans of the 2024-25 winter season generated 16,053 citations citywide. This enforcement intensity demonstrates that bylaw officers actively patrol during ban hours, issuing tickets to violating vehicles before tow trucks arrive.
The financial impact compounds quickly. A single violation resulting in towing and three days’ storage could cost $400-$550 total. Multiple violations during a winter season can easily exceed $1,000 in combined fines and fees.
Where to Park During Overnight Bans
When overnight parking bans are declared, Ottawa residents have several options for relocating vehicles off city streets.
Private Driveways: The simplest solution involves parking in your own driveway or that of a consenting neighbour. Most Ottawa homes include driveway parking, though downtown core residents face greater challenges.
City of Ottawa Parking Lots: Several municipal parking lots remain open free of charge during declared overnight bans. These facilities operate on a first-come, first-served basis and fill quickly after ban declarations:
- City Hall (110 Laurier Avenue West)
- Canterbury Recreation Complex (2185 Arch Street)
- Plant Recreation Centre (930 Somerset Street West)
- Carleton Heights Community Centre (1830 Kilborn Avenue)
OC Transpo Park and Ride Facilities: During declared overnight bans, OC Transpo Park and Ride lots throughout the city become available for free overnight parking. Popular locations include:
- Blair Station Park and Ride
- Eagleson Park and Ride
- Fallowfield Park and Ride
- Greenboro Park and Ride
- South Keys Park and Ride
- Trim Park and Ride
These facilities offer excellent alternatives for residents who cannot access private parking. Park your vehicle before the 7:00 PM ban start time and retrieve it anytime after 7:00 AM the following morning.
Commercial Parking Garages: Downtown residents may choose paid commercial parking garages offering 24-hour access. While this involves cost, rates for overnight parking typically run $15-25—significantly less than a parking fine plus potential towing.
On-Street Parking Permits: Monthly and Annual Options
Ottawa offers On-Street Parking Permits for residents requiring regular overnight street parking. These permits provide exemptions from winter parking bans within designated areas, though restrictions still apply during major snow events.
Monthly Permit Rates:
| Season | Monthly Rate |
|---|---|
| December - March | $130/month |
| April - November | $30/month |
| Annual (12 months) | $648/year |
The December through March premium reflects increased demand and enforcement costs during winter parking ban season. Annual permits provide modest savings for year-round users—$72 less than purchasing all 12 months individually.
Permit Eligibility and Requirements:
Permits are available only for residents of designated permit-parking zones. Applicants must provide proof of residency and vehicle registration. One permit is allowed per vehicle, and permits are not transferable between vehicles.
How to Apply:
Applications are processed through ottawa.ca/parking or in person at City of Ottawa client service centres. Processing typically takes 5-7 business days. Permits must be displayed on the vehicle’s dashboard as directed.
Important Limitations:
Even permit holders must relocate vehicles during major storm events when full street clearing is required. The City may suspend permit parking temporarily during significant snowfall requiring complete road access. Monitor parking ban announcements for specific instructions during major weather events.
Permit holders found in violation during suspended permit periods receive the same $125 fine as non-permit vehicles. The permit provides routine overnight parking rights, not unlimited exemption from snow clearing requirements.
Winter Tire Requirements in Ontario
Unlike Quebec, which mandates winter tires by law, Ontario has no province-wide winter tire requirement. This legal distinction surprises many Ottawa residents, particularly those familiar with Quebec’s December 1 through March 15 mandate.
Legal Status: Installing winter tires in Ontario remains voluntary. You cannot receive a traffic ticket solely for driving without winter tires, regardless of weather conditions. However, if inadequate tires contribute to an accident, fault determinations may consider tire condition and appropriateness for conditions.
Insurance Implications: While not legally required, winter tires significantly impact insurance rates. Ontario insurance companies offer discounts ranging from 2-10% on premiums for vehicles equipped with winter tires from November through April. These discounts apply to the tire-equipped months, potentially saving $50-150 annually depending on your premium amount.
To qualify for winter tire discounts, contact your insurance provider and declare your winter tire installation dates. Some insurers require proof of tire purchase or installation receipts. The discount typically applies automatically once reported, with savings reflected on subsequent bills.
Why Winter Tires Matter:
The rubber compound in all-season tires begins hardening below 7 degrees Celsius, dramatically reducing grip on cold pavement regardless of snow presence. Winter tire compounds remain pliable in temperatures reaching -40 degrees Celsius, maintaining traction on cold, dry roads as effectively as on snow and ice.
Testing demonstrates winter tires reduce braking distances by up to 25% compared to all-season tires in winter conditions. On ice, the difference expands dramatically—some tests show stopping distances halved with proper winter tires.
M+S vs. Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake:
Tires marked “M+S” (Mud and Snow) indicate basic winter capability but don’t meet severe winter performance standards. Look for the Three-Peak Mountain Snowflake symbol (a snowflake inside a mountain outline) certifying the tire meets rigorous winter traction testing requirements.
Best Winter Tires for Ottawa Driving
Selecting appropriate winter tires for Ottawa’s harsh conditions requires understanding tire categories and matching them to your driving patterns.
Top-Rated Winter Tires for 2025:
| Tire Model | Type | Strengths | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michelin X-Ice Snow | Studless Ice | Excellent ice traction, quiet ride | $180-$280/tire |
| Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5 | Studless Ice | Superior ice performance, eco-friendly | $200-$300/tire |
| Bridgestone Blizzak WS90 | Studless Ice | Deep snow handling, long tread life | $150-$250/tire |
| Yokohama IceGuard G075 | SUV/Truck | All-condition versatility, durability | $180-$270/tire |
| Continental VikingContact 7 | Studless Ice | Balanced performance, value | $160-$240/tire |
Michelin X-Ice Snow: Michelin’s flagship winter tire delivers exceptional performance across all winter conditions. The tire’s CrossGrip technology provides confident acceleration and braking on ice while maintaining composed handling in deep snow. Road noise remains impressively low for a winter tire, and tread life typically exceeds 60,000 kilometres.
Nokian Hakkapeliitta R5: Finnish manufacturer Nokian produces tires specifically engineered for extreme Nordic winters. The Hakkapeliitta R5 features innovative “brake boost” technology concentrating grip at the contact patch centre during hard braking. Aramid fiber sidewall reinforcement resists punctures from road debris hidden under snow.
Bridgestone Blizzak WS90: The Blizzak line represents Bridgestone’s premium winter offering. Multi-cell compound technology absorbs the thin water layer forming between tire and ice, improving grip dramatically. The WS90 iteration improves on previous versions with enhanced snow handling and extended tread life.
Yokohama IceGuard G075: Designed specifically for SUVs and light trucks, this tire handles the heavier vehicle weights common in Ottawa’s family hauler market. Triple 3D sipes provide biting edges in all directions while maintaining tread block stability for confident highway handling.
Studded Tire Considerations:
Ontario permits studded tires from October 1 through April 30. Studs provide superior ice grip but increase road noise, accelerate pavement wear, and perform worse on dry or wet pavement. For most Ottawa drivers, modern studless winter tires provide adequate ice performance without stud drawbacks.
When to Install and Remove Winter Tires
Timing your winter tire installation optimizes safety while maximizing tire lifespan. Installing too early wears expensive winter rubber on warm pavement; installing too late risks encountering hazardous conditions unprepared.
Installation Timing:
The general recommendation suggests installing winter tires when temperatures consistently remain below 7 degrees Celsius (45 degrees Fahrenheit). In Ottawa, this typically occurs during late October through early November.
Recommended Ottawa Timeline:
| Action | Recommended Period |
|---|---|
| Install Winter Tires | October 15 - November 7 |
| Remove Winter Tires | April 1 - April 15 |
Installing by early November ensures preparation before the first significant snowfall, which historically occurs in Ottawa between November 10-25. Waiting until the first storm creates appointment backlogs at tire shops, with multi-week wait times common during November rush periods.
CAA Free Retorquing Events:
CAA offers free tire retorquing services at various Ottawa locations during peak installation periods. After driving 100 kilometres on newly installed tires, lug nuts require retorquing to proper specifications. CAA technicians perform this service free of charge at scheduled events:
- Stittsville: October 4, November 15
- Orleans: October 11, November 1
Check CAA’s website for additional dates and locations throughout the installation season.
Spring Removal:
Remove winter tires once daytime temperatures consistently exceed 7 degrees Celsius and overnight freezing becomes rare. In Ottawa, this typically occurs during early April, though late-season storms occasionally arrive through mid-April.
Running winter tires on warm pavement accelerates tread wear significantly. The soft rubber compound optimized for cold conditions wears rapidly in warmer temperatures, potentially reducing tire lifespan by one full season.
Storage Considerations:
Store winter tires in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Tires should be cleaned of road salt and debris before storage. Many tire retailers offer seasonal storage services for approximately $80-120 per season, including mounting and balancing upon reinstallation.
Snow Removal Rules for Property Owners
Ottawa property owners bear responsibility for snow removal on sidewalks and walkways adjacent to their properties. Understanding these obligations prevents fines and maintains community safety.
Sidewalk Clearing Requirements:
Residential property owners must clear snow and ice from public sidewalks abutting their property within 24 hours following snowfall ending. The cleared path must be at least one meter wide, allowing safe pedestrian passage.
Commercial Property Requirements:
Commercial and institutional properties face stricter standards, with sidewalk clearing required within 8 hours of snowfall ending. High-traffic commercial areas receive priority enforcement attention.
Windrow Responsibility:
When City plows clear streets, they inevitably push snow onto driveways and sidewalk corners, creating windrows. Property owners are responsible for clearing windrows from their driveway entrances and maintaining clear sidewalk access regardless of plow timing.
Fines for Non-Compliance:
Failure to clear sidewalks within required timeframes results in fines up to $500. If the City clears the sidewalk due to non-compliance, property owners receive bills for clearing costs plus administrative fees—often exceeding $300.
Ice Control:
Property owners must also address ice formation on sidewalks. When ice develops, application of sand, salt, or ice melt products is required to maintain safe walking surfaces. Simply clearing snow isn’t sufficient if dangerous ice remains.
Tips for Efficient Snow Removal:
- Clear snow before it becomes packed and icy
- Apply ice melt products before storms when possible
- Keep a supply of sand or salt accessible throughout winter
- Consider hiring snow removal services if unable to clear personally
- Clear around fire hydrants near your property as a community service
Free Salt and Sand Depot Locations
The City of Ottawa provides free sand and salt mixture for residential use at multiple depot locations throughout the city. This mixture helps residents maintain safe walkways and driveways without purchasing commercial ice melt products.
Accessing Free Sand/Salt:
Depots operate on a self-serve basis during winter months. Bring your own container—a bucket, garbage can, or sturdy bag works well. Shovels are typically available at depot sites, though bringing your own speeds the process.
Popular Depot Locations:
| Location | Address | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Andrew Chicken Service Centre | 1580 Dunning Road | Large depot, rarely runs out |
| Nepean Sportsplex | 1701 Woodroffe Avenue | Suburban access |
| Bob MacQuarrie Recreation | 1490 Youville Drive, Orleans | Eastern Ottawa |
| Ron Kolbus Lakeside Centre | 102 Greenview Avenue | West end location |
| Jack Charron Arena | 655 Buckingham Drive | Kanata area |
Additional depot locations operate at various City facilities throughout Ottawa. Visit ottawa.ca for the complete list and seasonal operating hours.
Usage Guidelines:
The sand/salt mixture is intended for residential use on walkways, driveways, and stairs. Commercial use is prohibited, and taking excessive quantities prevents access for other residents. The mixture works effectively on ice when temperatures remain above -15 degrees Celsius; in colder conditions, pure salt becomes less effective.
Application Tips:
- Apply before walking on icy surfaces to allow penetration
- A thin layer works better than excessive amounts
- Reapply after freezing rain or new ice formation
- Sweep up excess after ice melts to protect plants and concrete
- Store remainder in sealed container to prevent moisture absorption
Winter Driving Safety Tips
Safe winter driving in Ottawa requires adjusting habits, maintaining vehicles, and respecting conditions that can change rapidly.
Speed and Following Distance:
Reduce speeds by at least 10 km/h below dry pavement driving speeds. Double or triple your following distance from other vehicles—stopping distances on snow and ice increase dramatically. Even with excellent winter tires, physics limits available traction.
Visibility Preparation:
Clear all snow and ice from your vehicle before driving. Ontario law requires windshields, windows, and mirrors be free of obstructions. Clear snow from hood, roof, and trunk—flying snow creates hazards for following vehicles and can slide forward during braking, blocking your view.
Winter Emergency Kit:
Keep these items in your vehicle throughout winter:
- Ice scraper and snow brush
- Small shovel
- Traction aids (sand, kitty litter, or traction mats)
- Jumper cables or portable booster
- Blanket and extra warm clothing
- Flashlight with fresh batteries
- First aid kit
- Phone charger
- Non-perishable snacks and water
- Flares or reflective triangles
Black Ice Awareness:
Black ice forms when moisture freezes on pavement, creating virtually invisible hazardous conditions. Bridge surfaces, shaded areas, and overpasses freeze first. If your vehicle suddenly feels lighter or steering becomes unresponsive, ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden inputs.
Vehicle Maintenance:
Winter demands peak vehicle performance. Ensure these systems function properly:
- Battery (cold reduces battery capacity significantly)
- Antifreeze concentration appropriate for -40 degrees Celsius
- Wiper blades (consider winter-specific blades)
- Washer fluid rated for -40 degrees Celsius
- Heating system and defrosters
- All lights and signals
School Bus Cancellation Information
Ottawa-area school bus cancellations during severe winter weather affect thousands of families daily. Knowing where to find cancellation information prevents morning chaos.
Official Information Sources:
OSTA (Ottawa Student Transportation Authority): Serves public and Catholic school boards across Ottawa. Check ottawaschoolbus.ca for cancellation announcements posted by 6:00 AM on inclement weather days.
OCDSB (Ottawa-Carleton District School Board): Posts transportation information on ocdsb.ca. School closure decisions typically appear by 6:30 AM.
OCSB (Ottawa Catholic School Board): Shares cancellation information on ocsb.ca and through their school messenger notification system.
Consortium de Transport Scolaire d’Ottawa (CTSO): French-language school transportation decisions appear at ctso.ca by early morning.
Understanding Cancellation Zones:
Ottawa’s bus cancellation system operates by geographic zones. Cancellations may affect specific zones while others continue normal operations. This zone-based approach addresses varying conditions across Ottawa’s extensive geographic area.
When Buses Are Cancelled:
- Schools typically remain open even when buses are cancelled
- Parents may drive children to school if safe
- Students who cannot attend due to cancelled transportation are excused
- After-school activities may be cancelled separately
Notification Options:
Register for email or text notifications through your school board or OSTA. These automated systems push cancellation information directly to your phone, eliminating the need to check websites during hectic mornings.
OC Transpo Winter Service Adjustments
Ottawa’s public transit system adapts to winter conditions with schedule adjustments and operational modifications. Understanding these changes helps plan reliable winter commutes.
Winter Service Hours:
OC Transpo generally maintains regular service schedules throughout winter, including during parking ban nights. Transit becomes especially valuable when overnight bans encourage leaving personal vehicles parked.
Weather-Related Delays:
Heavy snowfall, freezing rain, and extreme cold affect transit operations. During significant weather events:
- Buses may run 10-20 minutes behind schedule
- Some routes may be temporarily suspended
- O-Train service typically continues with minimal disruption
- Check @OC_Transpo on Twitter for real-time updates
Winter Commute Tips:
- Add 15-30 minutes buffer time during snow events
- Dress warmly for potential extended outdoor waits
- Download the Transit app for real-time bus tracking
- Consider earlier departure to ensure on-time arrival
- Keep PRESTO balance loaded to avoid outdoor reloading
Park and Ride During Bans:
OC Transpo Park and Ride facilities become free overnight parking during declared parking bans. Combine transit commuting with ban compliance by parking at a Park and Ride, taking transit downtown, and leaving your vehicle safely overnight during ban hours.
Accessibility Considerations:
Winter conditions can affect Para Transpo service and station accessibility. Ice and snow may impact wheelchair ramps and elevators. Contact OC Transpo customer service for accessibility concerns during winter weather events.
Emergency Resources and Road Conditions
When winter weather creates dangerous conditions or emergencies arise, these resources provide critical information and assistance.
Ottawa 511:
Ontario’s official road condition information service provides current highway and road status reports. Access at 511on.ca or by calling 511. Real-time camera views show actual conditions on major routes.
City of Ottawa Road Status:
For municipal road conditions and plowing progress, visit ottawa.ca/plowtracker. The interactive map shows which roads have been plowed and current maintenance priorities.
Emergency Services:
- 911: Police, fire, medical emergencies
- 311: Non-emergency city services, parking ban information
- OPP: 1-888-310-1122 (Ontario Provincial Police highway assistance)
- CAA Roadside Assistance: 1-800-222-4357 (members only)
Stranded Vehicle Protocol:
If your vehicle becomes stuck or disabled during severe weather:
- Stay with your vehicle if conditions are dangerous outside
- Run engine periodically for heat (ensure exhaust pipe is clear of snow)
- Turn on hazard lights
- Call for assistance using cell phone
- Tie bright cloth to antenna if available
Utility Emergencies:
- Hydro Ottawa (power outages): 613-738-0188
- Enbridge Gas (natural gas): 1-866-763-5427
- Ottawa Hydro outage map: hydroottawa.com/outages
Weather Warnings:
Environment Canada issues weather warnings through weather.gc.ca. Sign up for alert notifications to receive severe weather warnings directly to your phone.
Winter Driving Insurance Considerations
Beyond tire discounts, winter driving affects various insurance aspects Ottawa drivers should understand.
Winter Tire Discount:
As mentioned earlier, Ontario insurers offer 2-10% discounts for winter tire installation from November through April. Report your installation dates to your insurer to activate these savings.
At-Fault Accidents in Winter:
Insurance fault determination considers weather conditions but doesn’t automatically absolve drivers. If you lose control on ice and strike another vehicle, you may still be found at-fault regardless of road conditions. Courts and insurers expect drivers to adjust speeds and behavior appropriately for conditions.
Comprehensive Coverage:
Comprehensive coverage protects against weather-related damage including:
- Falling tree branches or ice
- Theft (more common during warming-up periods when vehicles are left running)
- Flooding from melting snow
- Wind damage
Collision Coverage:
Collision coverage addresses damage from winter-specific accidents including:
- Sliding into curbs or other objects
- Rear-end collisions on slippery roads
- Single-vehicle rollovers
Documentation for Claims:
If winter weather contributes to an incident, document conditions thoroughly:
- Photograph road conditions and weather
- Note temperature and precipitation
- Obtain police report if applicable
- Record witness information
- Note time of last road treatment if visible
FAQ
How do I know if a parking ban is in effect tonight?
Check ottawa.ca, call 311, or follow @OttawaBylaw on Twitter for official parking ban declarations. Bans are typically announced by mid-afternoon for same-evening implementation. Enable notifications on the 311 Ottawa app for automatic alerts. During declared bans, all on-street parking is prohibited from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Where can I park my car during an overnight ban?
OC Transpo Park and Ride facilities offer free overnight parking during declared bans. Several City parking lots also provide free overnight parking, including City Hall and Canterbury Recreation Complex. Private driveways, commercial parking garages, and parking with consenting neighbours are additional options. Arrive before 7:00 PM to avoid fines.
Are winter tires required by law in Ontario?
No, Ontario has no legal requirement for winter tires, unlike neighbouring Quebec. However, winter tires significantly improve safety and qualify for insurance discounts of 2-10%. Modern winter tire technology provides superior performance compared to all-season tires in temperatures below 7 degrees Celsius, regardless of snow presence.
How much does a parking ban violation cost?
The base fine is $125, reduced to $105 if paid within 7 days. If your vehicle is towed for blocking snow removal operations, additional fees of $150-$250 for towing plus $25-$50 daily storage apply. A towed vehicle recovered after several days can cost $400-$600 total. Multiple violations during a winter season compound costs significantly.
When should I install winter tires in Ottawa?
Install winter tires between mid-October and early November, before the first significant snowfall. The 7-degree Celsius threshold marks when all-season tire rubber begins hardening, reducing grip. Waiting until snow arrives creates appointment backlogs at tire shops with multi-week wait times common. Remove winter tires by mid-April when temperatures consistently exceed 7 degrees Celsius.
What happens if I don’t clear snow from my sidewalk?
Property owners must clear sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall ending (8 hours for commercial properties). Failure to comply can result in fines up to $500. If the City clears the sidewalk, property owners receive bills for clearing costs plus administrative fees. Ice must also be treated with salt, sand, or ice melt products to maintain safe surfaces.
Does insurance cover winter driving accidents?
Collision coverage addresses winter-related accidents, though fault determination still applies. Weather conditions don’t automatically absolve drivers of responsibility—courts expect appropriate speed reduction and cautious driving. Document conditions thoroughly if weather contributes to an incident. Winter tire installation may result in favorable consideration during claims assessment.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s winter driving and parking requirements demand attention from every driver navigating the capital during snow season. The 16,053 citations issued during just three overnight bans in the 2024-25 season demonstrate that enforcement remains active and violations carry real financial consequences.
Success in Ottawa’s winter driving environment combines several elements: monitoring parking ban announcements through official channels, investing in quality winter tires appropriate for your vehicle, maintaining proper following distances and reduced speeds, and keeping emergency supplies in your vehicle. The upfront costs of winter tires and potential permit fees pale compared to towing bills, fines, and the safety risks of unprepared winter driving.
Take advantage of the resources Ottawa provides—free Park and Ride parking during bans, salt and sand depots for residential use, and comprehensive road condition reporting through Ottawa 511. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe on Ottawa’s winter roads.
Sources: City of Ottawa (ottawa.ca), Ontario Ministry of Transportation, Insurance Bureau of Canada, CAA South Central Ontario, Ottawa Student Transportation Authority
