Snow Plow Contractor Licensing Review

Did you know? Snow plow contractors in Ottawa must obtain an annual business licence!

Snow plow contractors are licensed by the City of Ottawa under the Licensing By-Law (By-law No. 2002-189, Schedule 4). This licensing category includes businesses that provide snow plowing or removal services on or from private property using a snow plow. City Council has directed staff to review the current regulations for snow plow contractors and report back with recommendations in the Fall of 2024.

Why is the City conducting a review of regulations on snow plow contractors?

The City of Ottawa periodically reviews by-laws to address emerging issues and ensure each by-law continues to meet the needs of the community. Council has directed City staff to review regulations related to snow plow contractors, including the following issues:

• Noise and nuisance;
• Illegal snow dumping on private and public property; and,
• Follow up on permanently allowing metal driveway markers.

For more information on the By-law Review Framework and the current by-laws under review, visit the City’s By-law Review webpage.

How can I get involved?

If you are a member of the public, you can complete the online survey and subscribe to our Engage Ottawa page for future updates.

I am a snow plow contractor and want to provide my input:

If you are a snow plow contractor, email bylawreviews@ottawa.ca to receive additional information on industry-specific engagement opportunities and future updates.

Who are snow plow contractors under the Licensing By-law?

The City’s Licensing By-Law regulates several businesses in Ottawa, including snow plow contractors. Snow plow contractors include those who plow and/or remove snow from private property. Farmers who clear snow to help the community and people who use only shovels or manual snowblowers do not require a licence. For more information on regulations related to snow plow contractors, refer to Schedule 4 of the Licensing By-law.

I want to hire a snow plow company, how do I know if they are licensed?

If you are hiring a snow plow company, ask them for proof of their City-issued licence before signing the contract. You can also verify that a contractor is licensed by referring to the City’s approved list of snow plow contractors.

In addition, don't forget to look for an orange plate in the rear window of the snow-clearing vehicle as the contractor must also register each vehicle they are using for the season.

You can report unlicensed snow plow contractors by contacting 3-1-1 online or by phone.