Oak Bay snow can be beautiful, but can also cause headaches for travelling on our roads. The District of Oak Bay’s Public Works team works to clear roads, ensuring safe passage for our community during winter.
Oak Bay Snow Plowing
In the event of a snowfall, Oak Bay Public Works plows roads following these priorities:
- First priority: Major collectors and arterial routes, which include emergency routes
- Second priority: Hills, schools, bus routes and Recreation Centre access.
If your garbage collection is missed, store recycling materials until your next scheduled pickup. You may also drop it off at the District’s Public Works Yard.
For missed recycling collection, please contact GFL Environmental by calling 236-466-6886.
Oak Bay Snow Safety
- Walk on the left side of the road (facing traffic) if there is no sidewalk.
- Check on your four-legged friends! Clean their paws after a winter walk, as salt used on walkways can aggravate their paws.
- Drive to the winter conditions and give snowplows room to operate.
Clearing Your Street
Residents are required to clear ice and snow from sidewalks in front of their residences (Streets and Traffic Bylaw).
Remember these helpful tips:
- Make arrangements with your neighbours to help shovel and remove snow.
- Ensure your body is warmed up before shovelling
- Move your car so plows have room to clear snow
- Provide crews and snowplows ample room
- Clear catch basins (drains) of snow to prevent localized flooding
- While shovelling your driveway, place snow on the right hand side facing the road. This prevents snowplows from filling your driveway.

Contact Us
Oak Bay Public Works
Contact Oak Bay Public Works at 250-598-4501. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.