Winter in Canada brings not only stunning snowy landscapes but also the ongoing need to clear driveways, sidewalks, and parking lots. For many homeowners and businesses, the cost of snow removal is a key concern. Frequent snowfalls and sudden temperature changes are common across Canadian cities, especially in Calgary. In this article, we’ll break down what affects snow removal pricing, the different payment options available, and what you can expect to pay on average.
Main Factors That Affect Pricing
Snow removal costs can vary widely depending on several factors:
Size of the area
The larger the driveway, yard, or parking lot, the higher the cost. For homeowners, this usually means clearing the driveway, sidewalks, and sometimes the backyard. Businesses often require large parking areas to be plowed.
Frequency of service
Some clients choose one-time service after a heavy snowfall, while others prefer seasonal contracts where clearing is done automatically after each storm. One-time service typically costs more per visit, but seasonal contracts require upfront investment.
Type of equipment
- Small areas: shovels or snowblowers.
- Large parking lots: tractors and plow trucks.
Using heavy machinery raises the price.
Conditions and complexity
Sloped lots, properties with trees, or areas with parked cars require extra time and effort, which increases costs.
Additional services
- Sanding or salting to prevent ice buildup.
- Clearing snow and icicles from roofs.
- Hauling snow off the property.
Cost of Snow Removal for Homes
For Calgary homeowners, average snow removal prices are:
- One-time service: $40–$80 CAD for a standard driveway and sidewalk.
- Monthly plan: $120–$250 CAD depending on property size and number of visits.
- Seasonal contract (November–March): $350–$600 CAD.
Prices for Businesses and Commercial Properties
Snow removal for businesses is more expensive because of larger areas. Many companies rely on commercial snow removal Calgary providers that offer flexible contracts to handle anything from small lots to massive facilities. These services are designed for offices, retail stores, restaurants, and industrial sites where safety and accessibility are critical.
- Small lots (10–20 spaces): from $150 CAD per visit.
- Medium lots (50–100 spaces): $300–$700 CAD.
- Large facilities: pricing is customized and can reach several thousand dollars per season.
For companies, long-term contracts are especially important to ensure safe access for employees and customers.
Seasonal Contracts vs. One-Time Calls
Calgary winters are snowy, with more than 120 cm of snow on average each season. That’s why seasonal contracts are becoming more popular.
Benefits of a contract:
- Fixed price for the entire season.
- Guaranteed service right after snowfall.
- Cost savings in heavy snow years.
Drawbacks of a contract:
- Payment upfront.
- Possible overpayment if the winter is mild.
One-time service is cheaper if snowfalls are rare or the property is small. But in a harsh winter, total expenses can be higher than a seasonal plan.
Tips for Choosing a Contractor
- Check licenses and insurance – this protects you from liability in case of damage or accidents.
- Compare services, not just price – some companies include salting or sanding in their standard package, while others charge extra.
- Read customer reviews – there are many local providers, and feedback helps identify reliable ones.
- Confirm response times – timely clearing is critical, especially after overnight snowfalls.
Legal Requirements
Homeowners’ responsibilities
According to Section 67 of Calgary’s Street Bylaw, property owners must clear snow and ice down to the bare surface on sidewalks bordering their property within 24 hours after a snowfall ends.
Business responsibilities
Rules are stricter for businesses:
- Sidewalks and walkways: Owners and tenants of commercial properties must clear sidewalks within 24 hours of snowfall (Street Bylaw 67). This applies to offices, stores, restaurants, and any building where staff or customers enter.
- Parking areas and access routes: While city bylaws focus on sidewalks, under Alberta’s Occupiers’ Liability Act, businesses must ensure all accessible areas are safe. That means clearing and sanding parking lots, stairways, ramps, and entryways.
- Snow dumping restrictions: Businesses cannot push snow onto streets, bike lanes, or sidewalks. Since October 2024, violations carry a $250 fine.
Final Thoughts
Snow removal costs depend on the size of the property, service frequency, and level of care required. For homeowners, prices range from $40 for a single visit to $600 for a full-season contract. For businesses, costs are much higher, but the investment ensures safety for both staff and customers.
When choosing a provider, don’t just look at the price – consider service quality, response time, and extra options. With the right contractor, you can get through Calgary’s winter stress-free and without unnecessary hassle.
