Winnipeg winters are no joke! Once the snow hits the ground, you’ll want it to be gone as fast as it arrived. The endless cycle of shovelling, plowing, salting and scrambling to stay ahead of icy hazards is a nightmare. You’ll often hear “snow removal” and “snow clearing” used interchangeably, but they aren’t the same.
What’s the difference between snow removal in Winnipeg and snow clearing? Which one do you actually need?
As Winnipeg property maintenance providers, we’ve spent over 15 years helping the city of Winnipeg and its businesses keep their properties clear, safe and accessible all winter long.
What is Snow Clearing?
Snow clearing is pushing or plowing snow aside so sidewalks, parking lots, driveways and roads remain open and safe. The practice doesn’t remove snow from your property. Instead, it relocates it.
Most winter maintenance plans rely heavily on clearing. That’s because it’s fast, efficient and keeps your business operating smoothly.
How does it work? Snow is plowed into designated pile areas, which clears sidewalks, entrances, loading zones and drive lanes. In turn, high-traffic areas remain accessible throughout the day. It’s usually done using plow trucks, skid steers, snowblowers and sidewalk clearing units.
Snow clearing is usually done after each snowfall or multiple times during larger storms. Since Winnipeg experiences frequent, heavy snowfalls, clearing is the best way to keep hazards under control. Benefits include the following:
- Immediate access and improved safety
- Reduced slip-and-fall risks
- Keeps the property looking maintained and professional
What is Snow Removal?
Snow clearing pushes snow aside, but snow removal takes things a step further with proper snow removing equipment. The service involves collecting and hauling snow completely off the property. This usually happens when piles become too large or start interfering with visibility, parking or safety.
Snow removal is often used during the times of heavy snowfall that Winnipeg is known for. At these times, snow piles grow quickly and eat up valuable space.
How does snow removal work? The snow is loaded into a truck and transported to an approved dump site. The process involves clearing large piles that obstruct sightlines, walkways or parking stalls.
Winnipeg Businesses need snow removal when snowbanks are blocking parking space or reducing visibility near entrances and exits. Snow buildup can also cause drainage blockages and limit space on the property. The main advantages are:
- Regains lost parking space
- Improves visibility and drainage pedestrian safety
- Helps prevent water accumulation and flooding during melts
The Main Differences Between Snow Clearing and Snow Removal
Both services help manage winter conditions, but they are not the same. Here’s an overview to help you choose the best service for your needs:
| Snow Clearing | Snow Removal |
| Pushes snow to designated spots | Hauls snow off-site completely |
| Performed frequently | Performed as needed |
| Faster and lower cost | More labour-intensive and higher cost |
| Best for daily maintenance | Best for long-term safety and space management |
What does your property need? Let The Whiteout Group assess your site and recommend a winter maintenance plan that fits your space, traffic level and safety requirements.
Deciding Which Service Makes Sense for You
The majority of Winnipeg properties can benefit from both services. When used together, your property will remain accessible. Here’s a breakdown by property type:
Commercial & Industrial Properties
These sites need:
- Daily or multi-day snow clearing
- Snow removal after heavy storms or when snow piles start consuming parking space
When you get lots of vehicle and foot traffic, you have more responsibility. Customers, tenants and employees need to safely access your property at all times.
Municipal Sites
Snow clearing of sidewalks, schools, intersections, parks and bus areas is essential because these spaces must stay accessible at all times. Regular clearing keeps walkways safe and walkable, while proper municipal snow removal prevents tall piles from blocking intersections and pathways.
Small Businesses & Multi-Unit Properties
Depending on the size of the lot, clearing might be enough. If your property has limited places to store snow, removal is necessary.
Keep Your Property Safe and Accessible All Winter
Snow clearing will keep your business running smoothly on the regular. Snow removal keeps your property safe, spacious and compliant throughout the season. When used together, they keep your property safe, prevent slip hazards and maintain curb appeal through Winnipeg’s harsh winters. The Whiteout Group wants to protect your property throughout the season. If you’re after reliability, safety and peace of mind, professional help makes the most sense.
Need dependable winter maintenance? Contact us to learn more about our snow removal and clearing services!
