Snow Removal

The City of Sparks is divided into six snow routes for snow and ice control. During winter storms, crews prioritize major arterial and collector streets, as well as school bus routes, including Vista Blvd., Sparks Blvd., El Rancho, Rock Blvd. Baring Blvd., Los Altos Parkway, La Posada Drive, Hubble Drive, and Prater Way.

Residential streets are generally not plowed or sanded because crews and equipment must remain focused on Priority 1 and Priority 2 roadways.

Before a snowstorm, crews may apply brine to major arterial streets to help prevent snow and ice from bonding to the pavement. Brine is typically not applied when rain is forecast because it can be washed away.

Throughout the winter, City staff closely monitor weather forecasts and adjust staffing and equipment based on expected conditions. During larger storms, crews may work alternating 12-hour shifts to provide continuous snow and ice control.

Residents are responsible for clearing snow from their driveways and sidewalks and are asked not to shovel, blow, or push snow into the roadway.

Rain Events

City staff works closely with the National Weather Service before and during major storms. If flooding is possible, the City will share important information with residents, including available sandbag locations and other safety updates.

Important tips: 
Never walk or drive through flooded roadways or standing water. It can be difficult to determine how deep the water is or whether the roadway underneath has been damaged or washed away.

Just six inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger vehicles, causing drivers to lose control or vehicles to stall. About 12 inches of rushing water can carry away many small vehicles, while two feet of rushing water can sweep away larger vehicles, including SUVs and trucks. Even shallow standing water can cause vehicles to hydroplane, especially at higher speeds.

Walking through flooded streets can also be dangerous. Heavy rainfall can create significant water and air pressure underground, dislodging manhole covers and creating other hazards that may not be visible beneath the water. 

When you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and find another route.

For Statewide Road Conditions, visit NV Roads

Some additional helpful links include:


Snow plow clearing a road