Winter Operations
Keeping Cincinnati moving safely during the winter is the City of Cincinnati's primary goal. The Department of Public Services (DPS) maintains 3,112 lane miles within a 79-square-mile area.
We ask for your patience as DPS first focuses its efforts on treating the City's primary and secondary routes. Primary routes include some hills, bridges, main thoroughfares, and Cincinnati's downtown Central Business District.
The City's streets are cleared as a priority to improve the safety and travel conditions for the public.
The City of Cincinnati reminds residents that under Cincinnati Municipal Code 723-57 and 723-59, property owners are responsible for maintaining the sidewalk(s) adjacent to their property. This includes ensuring sidewalks are safe and passable of ice and snow during winter weather events.
Download the DPS Snow and Ice Removal Plan
Weather Alerts
The City of Cincinnati follows the Snow Emergency levels announced by the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office:
- Level I Snow Alert: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow.
- Level II Snow Advisory: Roadways are hazardous with blowing and drifting snow. Only those who feel it is necessary to drive should be out on the roadways. Contact your employer to see if you should report to work.
- Level III Snow Emergency: All Municipal, Township, County and State roadways are closed to non-emergency personnel. No one should be out during these conditions unless it is absolutely necessary to travel. Those traveling on the roadways may subject themselves to arrest.