Indianapolis, January 30, 2026
The Indianapolis Department of Public Works (DPW) is conducting inspections of city streets post-snow removal by contractors to ensure safe driving conditions. Residents can report missed streets through the Mayor’s Action Center or the Request Indy app. DPW’s snow removal policy prioritizes major roads and connector streets based on snow accumulation, with residential areas handled after significant snowfall. Residents are reminded of their responsibilities in maintaining sidewalks and access around mailboxes to avoid fines.
Indianapolis DPW Double-Checks Road Conditions After Contractors Clear Snow
Indianapolis, IN – The Indianapolis Department of Public Works (DPW) is conducting thorough inspections of city streets following recent snow removal efforts by contractors. This proactive measure aims to ensure all roadways are safely passable for residents and commuters.
Inspection and Reporting Process
DPW crews have been working in 12-hour rotating shifts since last Friday night to clear the city’s roads. Between Thursday and Friday, the department will inspect the work completed by contractors. Residents who believe their street was missed are encouraged to contact the Mayor’s Action Center or submit a ticket via the Request Indy website or app, ideally with photos. DPW will review any complaints received to determine if contractors missed a street, completed work there, or if it is private property. If segments are reported and inspected, and DPW disagrees with the completion, contractors will be dispatched to address the issue.
Resident Experiences
Local residents have shared their experiences regarding snow removal efforts. One resident reported that while their street was cleared, snow accumulation at the end of driveways posed a challenge for access. Such reports highlight the importance of continuous communication between the city and its community to ensure the best outcomes for all.
DPW’s Snow Removal Policy
Indianapolis DPW follows a tiered snow removal policy to prioritize road clearing based on traffic volume and importance. Major thoroughfares and streets adjacent to hospitals and fire stations are given first priority and are plowed during any snow accumulation. Connector streets, which link these thoroughfares with less-traveled roadways, are cleared when snow totals exceed 2 inches. Residential streets are plowed when snow accumulation reaches 4 inches or more. Once this threshold is met, DPW communicates with the chair of the council’s Public Works Committee to determine if contractors will be called out.
Resident Responsibilities
While DPW focuses on clearing public roadways, residents are responsible for maintaining their own driveways, sidewalks, and areas around mailboxes. Property owners should clear a 5-foot-wide path along the sidewalk, ensuring accessibility for pedestrians, including those with disabilities. If snow stops falling after 7 p.m., sidewalks must be cleared by 9 a.m. the following morning; if snow stops after 9 a.m., sidewalks should be cleared by 7 p.m. Failure to comply may result in a $50 fine.
Contact Information
Residents who believe their street was missed during snow removal efforts are encouraged to contact the Mayor’s Action Center or submit a ticket via the Request Indy website or app, ideally with photos. DPW will review any complaints received to determine if contractors missed a street, completed work there, or if it is private property.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Indianapolis DPW’s snow removal policy?
The Indianapolis DPW follows a tiered snow removal policy to prioritize road clearing based on traffic volume and importance. Major thoroughfares and streets adjacent to hospitals and fire stations are given first priority and are plowed during any snow accumulation. Connector streets, which link these thoroughfares with less-traveled roadways, are cleared when snow totals exceed 2 inches. Residential streets are plowed when snow accumulation reaches 4 inches or more. Once this threshold is met, DPW communicates with the chair of the council’s Public Works Committee to determine if contractors will be called out.
How can residents report missed streets during snow removal?
Residents who believe their street was missed during snow removal efforts are encouraged to contact the Mayor’s Action Center or submit a ticket via the Request Indy website or app, ideally with photos. DPW will review any complaints received to determine if contractors missed a street, completed work there, or if it is private property.
What are residents’ responsibilities regarding sidewalk snow removal?
Property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from their sidewalks. They should clear a 5-foot-wide path along the sidewalk, ensuring accessibility for pedestrians, including those with disabilities. If snow stops falling after 7 p.m., sidewalks must be cleared by 9 a.m. the following morning; if snow stops after 9 a.m., sidewalks should be cleared by 7 p.m. Failure to comply may result in a $50 fine.
Key Features of Indianapolis DPW’s Snow Removal Efforts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Inspection Process | DPW conducts thorough inspections of city streets following snow removal by contractors to ensure all roadways are safely passable. Residents can report missed streets to the Mayor’s Action Center or via the Request Indy website or app. |
| Snow Removal Policy | DPW follows a tiered snow removal policy prioritizing major thoroughfares, connector streets, and residential streets based on snow accumulation levels. |
| Resident Responsibilities | Property owners are responsible for clearing snow and ice from their sidewalks, ensuring a 5-foot-wide path for pedestrian accessibility. Failure to comply may result in a $50 fine. |
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