Streets & Recycling Department: City of Madison, Wisconsin

SNOW EMERGENCY INFORMATION:

When Is A Snow Emergency Declared?

A Snow Emergency is declared whenever it becomes necessary to plow residential streets.
A Snow Emergency will always be declared prior to 9 p.m. if it is to take effect that night.
When a Snow Emergency is declared it will remain in effect for a minimum of 48 hours to give crews an opportunity to clear both sides of the streets.
A Snow Emergency can be extended beyond the 48 hour minimum if conditions warrant.

Where Should I Park During A Snow Emergency?

Off street parking is best. However, if you must park on the street, follow the instructions you receive when you call 261-9111. Or at Alternate Side Parking Instructions.
Parking is also available in the cashiered sections of city-owned ramps in the downtown area. During a declared snow emergency you can park for NO CHARGE at the City ramps from 9 p.m. until 7 a.m. If you arrive before 9 p.m. or leave after 7 a.m. you are liable for any parking charges from prior to 9 p.m. and/or from 7 a.m. until the time you leave. When parking in the ramps over night, DO NOT park on the top level so this area can be plowed. Be aware that vehicles stored in city ramps longer than 48 hours can be ticketed and towed. Meters in lots and ramps are enforced 24 hours per day, seven days a week.
Parking is also available at three central city parks. Residents can park in the lots at Burr Jones Park 1820 E. Washington Ave, the boat landing lot of Tenney Park, 1615 Sherman AV ( located along the east side of the Yahara River), and beach parking lot at Olbrich Park 3527 Atwood Ave.

What Are The Penalties For Winter Parking Violations?

Violations of the winter parking restrictions are subject to a fine. Details are available at http://www.cityofmadison.com/parkingTraffic/
Vehicles may also be towed if necessary. Towing will result in an additional fine plus towing and storage charges.
NOTE: Vehicles must abide by all posted parking restrictions. Where there are no posted restrictions, vehicles must be moved every 48 hours or be subject to a ticket and towing.

Where Is The Snow Emergency Zone?

The Snow Emergency Zone extends from Park and Proudfit Streets on the south and west to Thornton Avenue and the Yahara River on the north and from Lake Monona to Lake Mendota.

NOTE: Daytime alternate side parking restrictions are in effect in the 700-1200 blocks of Jenifer Street even if there is no Snow Emergency. Those restrictions are posted on signs along the affected blocks. This section of Jenifer Street is exempt from other Snow Emergency regulations due to the daytime restrictions.

How Do I Find Out About A Snow Emergency?

The best way is to call the Snow Emergency Hotline at (608) 261-9111. This phone line is updated as soon as a Snow Emergency has been declared. The phone information is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also subscribe to a list serv that will send you an e-mail when we declare a snow emergency. To register go to: Snow Emergency Mailing List
The Street Division will also contact local news media so you can monitor Madison radio and TV stations for information on Snow Emergencies.
Whenever possible, we will post a Snow Emergency notice on the Streets Divisions home page at http://www.cityofmadison.com/streets/. To insure that you have the latest and most accurate information call (608) 261-9111.

Helpful Phone Numbers: