Toronto Will Tow Illegally Parked Or Abandoned Cars To Keep Clearing Snow Today

Starting on Wednesday, the City of Toronto will tag and tow abandoned or illegally parked vehicles to ensure snow clearing efforts continue without obstruction.

According to Wednesday's news release, cars parking or stranded on designated snow routes will be moved to make room for crews and equipment as "they continue with plowing operations throughout the City."

The towed vehicles will be taken to a car compound. Residents will need to call the appropriate towing company to locate their property, depending on where they live.

However, "friendly tows," which involve towing parked vehicles to nearby locations to make room for snow removal equipment, will also occur. So, if your vehicle slightly moved, don't panic. It wasn't a break-in.

It's worth noting that the city considers the following designated snow routes:

• "Streetcar routes,
• Arterial roads
• Local roads with high windrows that impede the work of police, fire, and emergency services."

"City staff will reach out directly to residents, where required, to provide an opportunity to move their vehicles prior to any friendly towing taking place," an excerpt from the release reads.

"Starting Thursday morning, requests for missed areas for snow clearing will be accepted by 311 once snow clearing operations are substantially complete," it adds.

The advisory also warns residents and businesses shovelling or plowing snow onto the roads that it's illegal and subject to a fine of up to $5,000.

Residents are also asked to contact 311 to report on any property owners who do not clear their sidewalk or private property.