Strata Snow Removal: What Every Metro Vancouver Council Needs to Know

Snow season in Metro Vancouver may be milder than other parts of Canada, but strata properties face unique challenges when the flakes fly. Whether you manage a large strata complex, townhouse community, or mixed-use development, having a solid strata snow removal plan is essential to maintain safety, comply with local bylaws, and keep residents satisfied.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything strata councils and property managers need to know to be ready for winter — from understanding Vancouver snow removal bylaws and the Occupiers Liability Act to choosing the right professional snow removal service.

Why Strata Snow Removal Preparedness Is Critical in Metro Vancouver

Strata properties have shared outdoor spaces such as sidewalks, parking lots, entrances, and common areas that require coordinated snow and ice management. Unlike single-family homes, these spaces affect multiple residents and visitors and need prompt attention during snow events.

Failing to provide timely strata snow removal can lead to:

• Slip and fall accidents resulting in injuries

• Damage to vehicles and property

• Complaints and dissatisfaction from residents

• Potential legal liability for the strata corporation under provincial laws

According to BC’s Occupiers Liability Act, strata corporations and property managers have a duty to keep common property reasonably safe, including during winter weather. This means timely snow removal services and adequate salting or sanding to prevent hazardous conditions. For full legal details, refer to the Strata Property Act (BC).

Understanding Vancouver’s Snow Removal Bylaws for Strata Properties

While the City of Vancouver primarily holds property owners responsible for clearing sidewalks adjacent to their property, strata corporations have additional obligations for common property snow removal. The City’s Sidewalk Snow and Ice Removal Bylaw (Bylaw 9964) requires owners to clear snow and ice promptly to ensure public safety.

Key points from the bylaw include:

• Snow and ice must be removed from sidewalks within a reasonable time after a snow event.

• Property owners should take reasonable steps to prevent hazardous conditions with sand or salt.

• Failure to comply may lead to city fines or the city performing the work and charging the owner.

For city-specific details, also check out City of Burnaby Snow and Ice Control for neighbouring municipality guidelines.

Legal Considerations: The BC Occupiers Liability Act and Safety Guidelines

Beyond city bylaws, the Occupiers Liability Act makes property owners and occupiers responsible for ensuring premises are safe for occupants and visitors. This includes managing snow and ice hazards on common property.

If a visitor or resident suffers an injury due to uncleared snow or ice, the strata corporation could face legal claims. Maintaining proper records of snow removal and maintenance is critical to demonstrate due diligence.

WorkSafeBC provides excellent resources on preventing winter slips, trips, and falls that property managers and strata councils should review.

You can also reference SFM Mutual’s winter safety tips, which provide practical suggestions like redirecting gutter runoff, monitoring shaded areas, and managing ice-prone parking lots.

How to Prepare Your Strata for Snow Season: Best Practices

1. Develop a Comprehensive Snow Removal Plan

Proactive planning is the best way to stay ahead of winter weather. A good snow removal plan should include:

• Clear trigger points for when snow removal crews are dispatched (e.g., when snow accumulation reaches 2 cm).

• Defined priority areas: sidewalks, entrances, parking lots, ramps, and common outdoor spaces.

• A schedule for pre-salting and anti-icing to prevent ice buildup.

• Emergency contacts and 24/7 support availability for heavy snow or ice events.

2. Hire a Licensed and Insured Snow Removal Company

Professional strata snow removal services provide expertise, equipment, and insurance protection. Benefits include:

• Efficient snow plowing, shoveling, and salting tailored to your property’s layout

• Compliance with municipal bylaws and provincial safety standards

• Reduced liability risk with documented services

• Ability to handle emergency snow removal requests promptly

When selecting a provider, ask about their experience with strata snow removal in Metro Vancouver and insurance coverage. Partner with a trusted provider offering expert strata snow removal services tailored to your property’s unique needs

3. Communicate Clearly with Residents

Good communication reduces frustration and promotes cooperation. Inform residents about:

• Snow removal schedules and expected service times

• Parking restrictions during snow clearing operations

• Safety tips for navigating slippery common areas

• How to report concerns or emergencies related to snow and ice

Clear updates via newsletters, emails, or posted notices can make a big difference.

4. Document All Snow Removal Activities

Keep detailed records of every snow removal event, including:

• Dates and times of service

• Weather conditions and snowfall measurements

• Service reports or invoices from contractors

• Photos before and after snow clearing

This documentation helps protect your strata corporation if liability claims arise.

Benefits of Professional Strata Snow Removal Services in Metro Vancouver

Choosing a professional snow removal company offers peace of mind by:

• Ensuring fast and reliable snow clearing to maintain safety

• Keeping your property compliant with city bylaws and provincial laws

• Protecting residents from slip-and-fall injuries

• Preserving the value and reputation of your strata complex

At SnowMasters Winter Services Ltd., we specialize in comprehensive strata snow removal and ice management across Metro Vancouver and the Tri-Cities. Our fully insured team provides customized snow removal, salting, and de-icing services tailored for strata complexes.

Ready to Protect Your Strata This Winter?

Don’t wait for the snow to create safety hazards or legal troubles. Partner with SnowMasters Winter Services Ltd. for professional, reliable, and compliant strata snow removal in Vancouver and surrounding areas.

Call us today at (778) 742-5471 or request a free consultation online to discuss your strata’s winter needs.