Do You Have To Remove Snow From The Roof?

Do You Have To Remove Snow From The Roof?

Winter in Canada isn’t only about cozy evenings by the fireplace and scenic walks through snowy parks – it’s also a season of challenges for homeowners and business owners alike. One of the most common questions people face every year is: do you really need to remove snow from your roof?

At first glance, a thick blanket of snow might seem like extra insulation, keeping heat inside your home. But the reality is more complicated.

How Much Snow Can a Roof Handle?

Modern Canadian roofs are designed with snow load in mind. Building codes vary by province: Alberta and Manitoba have stricter requirements than British Columbia, for example. On average, residential roofs are built to support 20–40 pounds per square foot (roughly 100–200 kg per square meter).

But weight alone isn’t the only problem. Snow rarely stays light and fluffy. When it melts and refreezes, it becomes heavy and forms an icy crust. Even a brand-new roof can be strained under those conditions.

Risks of Snow Buildup

Roof collapses. While rare, partial collapses of malls, warehouses, and garages make the news almost every winter. Private homes aren’t immune.

Ice dams. Heat escaping from inside the house melts the bottom layer of snow, which refreezes at the eaves. This creates thick ridges that block drainage and force water under the shingles, leading to leaks.

Damaged gutters. Heavy snow and ice bend gutters and downspouts, often resulting in costly spring repairs.

Hazards to pedestrians. In cities like Calgary and Edmonton, falling icicles or slabs of snow pose serious risks to people passing by.

Do You Always Have to Remove It?

That depends on several factors:

  • Roof design. Steep-sloped roofs often shed snow on their own, while flat or low-pitched roofs hold it.

  • Snowfall amounts. After a record snowfall, it’s safer to clear it.

  • Age of the home. Older roofs with weakened framing are more vulnerable.

  • Temperature swings. Frequent thaw-freeze cycles raise the risk of ice dams dramatically.

What Does the Law Say?

There’s no single federal law in Canada requiring roof snow removal. Regulations are handled by provinces and municipalities.

  • Provincial building codes set snow load standards for roof construction. Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan have the strictest rules, while coastal British Columbia has lighter requirements.

  • These codes apply to builders and engineers—not directly to homeowners. Your roof must meet the load standard, but no law forces you to shovel it regularly.

The interesting part comes at the municipal level. Many Canadian cities (including Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, and Ottawa) have bylaws:

  • Most focus on clearing sidewalks near private property to protect pedestrians.

  • Some extend to roofs if falling snow or icicles create hazards.

For example, Calgary’s Street Bylaw requires property owners to keep their premises safe. If snow or ice falls from your roof and injures someone or damages property, you could be held liable.

Key takeaway: For private homes, you’re mainly responsible if damage occurs. For businesses, rules are stricter – owners must actively ensure safety for pedestrians and vehicles, and roofs are specifically mentioned.

Safe Snow Removal Tips

  • Skip the shovel. Metal or plastic shovels can damage shingles.

  • Use the right tools. Hardware stores sell “roof rakes” – long, telescoping tools designed for snow removal from the ground.

  • Leave a thin layer. Don’t scrape down to the bare roof; clearing about two-thirds of the snow is enough.

  • Keep it even. Removing snow from only one side can stress the structure.

  • Stay safe. Never climb onto a roof without proper gear or training. Every winter, Calgary paramedics respond to dozens of falls from DIY roof clearing.

When to Call the Pros

  • If the roof is tall or hard to access.

  • If snow has compacted into ice.

  • If you notice leaks or ceiling sagging.

  • If large icicles are hanging over entrances or walkways.

This is when hiring a professional snow removal service Calgary homeowners trust can make all the difference. Many companies provide roof clearing, and while pricing depends on the size of the house and snow depth, paying for expert help is often far cheaper than repairing damage later.

Preventive Measures

  • Insulate the attic. Less heat loss means less melting and fewer ice dams.

  • Ventilate properly. Cold airflow under the roof helps snow stay frozen instead of thawing.

  • Maintain the roof. Replacing worn shingles is cheaper than fixing major leaks.

  • Install heating cables. In areas with frequent thaws, heated gutters help keep water flowing.

Final Thoughts

Snow removal from roofs isn’t a nationwide legal requirement in Canada, but it’s often a matter of common sense and safety. For flat roofs, older homes, or after heavy storms, it’s a smart precaution.

Think of it this way: snow on the roof is like an uninvited guest. If it arrives lightly and doesn’t overstay, you can let it be. But if it lingers, gets heavy, and starts causing trouble – it’s better to “say goodbye” before spring brings even bigger headaches.

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Ozlandscaping Team
Crafting landscapes that inspire! OZ Landscaping provides comprehensive landscaping solutions in Calgary and surrounding areas. We specialize in construction, and maintenance, turning your ideas into stunning outdoor spaces. Our team combines modern techniques with exceptional craftsmanship to bring your vision to life.