Snowplowing Policy

Emergencies should be reported to the Cass County Sheriff's office, 218-547-1424. For Statewide road conditions, call 1-800-542-0220. See the Quick Contacts below for additional phone numbers.

When does plowing begin?
The County will not usually dispatch plows until after a snowfall has stopped. Exceptions may be made during extended snowfalls, but plows will not be sent out in hazardous conditions.

If snowfall stops during regular working hours, plows may be dispatched at that time. If the snowfall stops during the night or early morning, plows will be dispatched in time to accommodate the traveling public. Weekend plowing will be handled the same way.

What gets plowed?
The County plows County roads, plus those of some other units of government by contract, such as townships. Cass County has more than 1,742 lane miles of roads that are maintained. Roads are prioritized and township roads are the last to be plowed.

What is the plowing procedure
The County does not assure a completely bare road and it will not sand entire sections of roadway. Phased plowing - There are three phases to the process.
1. Make the road passable by cleaning one lane in each direction.
2. Widen the lanes to the edge of the shoulders. Sanding takes place at problem locations, including intersections, curves, hills and bridges. Salt mixture varies with temperature and road condition.
3. Cleanup, during which ice and slush are removed and the sun is allowed to do its work.

What about property damage caused by plowing?
Fence and mailbox damage: the County will repair at its expense only those fences and boxes that are properly located and installed and which were damaged by actual contact with County equipment. Damage resulting from snow flying from the plow is not the responsibility of the County.

What is my responsibility?
County residents are reminded that it is unlawful to plow snow from driveways onto or across County roads. Piles of snow left on or near the road can freeze into a solid mass, creating a hazardous situation for vehicles and snowplows. Accidents and damages caused by snow piles placed in the roadway may result in liability to the property owner. Piles of snow increase the chances of snow drifting onto the roadway. As snow is plowed from roadways, operators leave as little snow as possible across driveways. County removal of this snow is not feasible and is the property owner's responsibility.

What about parked vehicles?
County residents are reminded to remove parked vehicles from County roads so as to assist in snow removal.

What if I get stranded or stuck?
Stranded motorists - The County highway department may assist stranded motorists by contacting law enforcement/emergency personnel. The department will not attempt to remove stuck vehicles from ditches, snowbanks or any other impediment.

What about sidewalks?
Sidewalks on County or County State Aid Highways within Municipalities are the responsibility of the Municipality.