Winter Control

Report issues using our report a concern form.

Please fill out the details of your issue so we can address it promptly.

The County of Huron plows all county roads in Bluewater. The following is a list of the County Roads within Bluewater:

• Mill Road (CR 3) from Hwy 4 to Hwy 21
• Parr Line from Zurich-Hensall Rd (CR 84) to Bayfield River Road
• Zurich-Hensall Rd from Hwy 4 to Hwy 21
• Goshen Line from Zurich-Hensall Rd (CR 84) to Dashwood Rd (CR 83)
• Dashwood Rd (CR 83) from Hwy 4 to Hwy 21

The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) is responsible for maintaining provincial highways in Bluewater, including:

• London Road (Highway 4)
• Bluewater Highway (Highway 21)

To help keep roads safe in winter, all rural mailboxes must meet Canada Post standards and be installed according to guidelines so plows can pass safely.

• If your mailbox does not meet these standards, the Municipality is not responsible for damage.
• If your compliant mailbox is damaged by snow removal equipment on municipal roads, the Municipality will reimburse up to $100 for repairs.
• Mailboxes damaged by snow coming off the plow blade or wing will not be replaced—you’ll need to make those repairs yourself.

Who to contact:

• For mailboxes on Municipal roads, contact the Public Works Administrative Assistant.
• For mailboxes on County roads, contact the County of Huron.
• For mailboxes on provincial highways, contact the Ministry of Transportation (MTO).

Sidewalks are usually cleared within 24 hours after a snowstorm.

Not all sidewalks are maintained in winter.

When plows clear the roads, some snow naturally ends up at the end of driveways. These piles are called windrows, and they’re a normal part of snow removal.

Plow operators do their best to keep windrows small, but they can’t control all the snow that comes off the plow.

 Clearing windrows is the homeowner’s responsibility.

Sometimes, after a snowfall, it’s hard for plow operators to see where the curb or sidewalk is under the snow. This can lead to the plow accidentally scraping the grass.

If the ground is frozen, damage is usually minor. When the ground isn’t frozen, the sod can tear more easily.

The Municipality fixes sod damage in the spring.

To report damage, fill out the "Report A Concern Form" on the municipal website so we can add your property to the repair list.

A significant weather event is declared when severe weather—such as heavy snow, ice, or freezing rain—creates dangerous conditions for people using roads and sidewalks. This declaration acknowledges the time the Municipality needs to clear roads and sidewalks safely while staying compliant with provincial standards (Ontario Regulation 239/02).

Why is it important?

• Keeps the public safe during weather events.
• Allows crews to focus on managing hazardous conditions effectively.

Bluewater Recycling Association (BRA) provides garbage and recycling services for the Municipality. If collection hasn’t occurred by 5:30 p.m., please contact BRA directly at 519-228-6678 ext. 228.

Please don’t pile snow from your driveway or property on top or around fire hydrants. Keeping hydrants clear is important so firefighters can access them quickly in an emergency.

Who should clear them?

• Property owners are strongly encouraged to clear snow around hydrants near their property.
• If you’re unable to do so, firefighters or municipal staff will remove the snow when needed.

Working together helps keep everyone safe!

Here are a few ways to help during the winter:

• Be patient: Heavy snowfalls take longer to clear.
• Be a good neighbour: Help those who can’t shovel their driveways or sidewalks.
• Don’t park on the street: Avoid parking on streets during or right after a snowfall if plowing is still needed. Also, don’t park at the end of your driveway or across sidewalks/boulevards—plows need space to work.
• Stay back from plows: Keep a safe distance and never try to pass a plow truck. It’s dangerous for everyone.
• Don’t put snow on the road: Shoveling snow from your driveway or sidewalk onto the street is hazardous and against the Highway Traffic Act.
• Don’t push snow across the road.