As winter weather makes it way to our mountain town, the City of North Bend reminds residents to be aware of city snowplow routes, as well as the steps you can take to assist Public Works crews when the snow begins to fall, and chances of ice increase.
To understand the order in which city streets are plowed, please see the 2025/2026 Snowplow Route Map which details Priority 1, 2, and 3 routes and priority access point locations.
In consideration of public health and our environment, the city refrains from the heavy use of chemicals and geo-melts on our roadways. This is done out of caution for the Snoqualmie aquifer (located directly beneath many city roads), drinking water quality, and potential adverse impact on public health.
The city uses two de-icer materials: a sand/salt mix and Ice-Slicer. Crews closely monitor local weather systems and deploy the materials according to the Snow Removal Policy, which factors in cost, environmental impact, location, and public safety. Learn more about the De-Icer Program by viewing the Snow Removal Policy.
Tips to keep City streets accessible for snowplows to ensure roads are cleared for motorists:
- If possible, do not park your vehicle on the street or in your cul-de-sac. An empty street makes the passage of snowplows and sand spreaders much easier.
- Do not attempt to stop the plow truck operators. They follow specific routes and are under the direction of Public Works. If you find yourself behind a snowplow, slow down and give the plow a little extra room.
- Never shovel snow from sidewalks and driveways into the streets. The snowplows always push the snow to the side of the road. If you shovel snow into the street, it will be pushed back onto your driveway. Pushing the snow from your driveway onto the road will add to the pack on the roads, making a hazardous situation.
- Pile snow shoveled from your driveway on the right side facing the street. This reduces the chance of having the plow pile the snow over your driveway entrance after you have shoveled it out. Our drivers attempt to leave clear entrances to driveways whenever possible. This is not always possible following heavy snowfall.
- Please shovel any catch basins if they are in front of your home. Melting snow can drain into the storm system and this will reduce possible flooding and icing in the street as well as the chance of flooding on your property.
- Garbage cans and recycling should not be placed on the road. Keep them on the sidewalk and remove them as soon as possible following collection.