Snow and Ice Control

The Department of Public Works is responsible for providing snow and ice control for all dedicated streets within city limits.  The primary objective is to provide for the safe and orderly movement of traffic.  Public Works staff work year-round to prepare and plan for each winter season.  When a snow or ice event is forecast, city personnel is mobilized.  Intense storms require a 24-hour response and crews are assigned to 12-hour shifts for the duration of the storm and until the streets are accessible. 

Additional information regarding the Snow and Ice Control Plan for the Department of Public Works can be found here.

All roads in the City of Fishers are prioritized into groups for conducting snow removal operations, and snow plowing routes are also color coded for easy identification.  The Department of Public Works and the Department of Engineering collaborate each year to create a snow map.  The map includes all dedicated streets in the City of Fishers and outlines the order of priority for snow events, including: 

Priority 1:  Primary Roads (Blue)

Primary roads facilitate traffic coming into and through Fishers.  This roadway network must be kept open to provide a transportation system that connects public safety facilities throughout the city.  Hospitals, fire stations, and police stations are located on blue primary roads.

Priority 2:  Secondary Roads (Green)

Secondary roads are feeder roads that distribute traffic towards subdivision main roads and subdivision roads.  These higher traffic roads may have schools, parks, businesses, or act as the primary road within a subdivision.

Priority 3:  Subdivision Main Roads (Red)

Subdivision main roads are longer roads that make up a residential neighborhood.  

Priority 4:  Subdivision Roads (Purple)

Subdivision roads are shorter roads and cul-de-sacs within a residential neighborhood. 

Other Roads (Not Highlighted)

Any road that is not highlighted is not incorporated within city limits or is identified as a private road.  These roads are not serviced by the City of Fishers.

The basic roadway network consisting of priority one (Blue) roads and priority two (Green) roads will always be maintained with the maximum service level.  Priority three (Red) roads and priority four (Purple) roads will be maintained as the winter storm conditions allow.  

A snow event in Indiana forecasting 2-6 inches of snow may require all available snow and ice control vehicles, equipment, and personnel.  Liquid brine may be applied throughout the city including all four priorities of roadway prior to the snow event.  Granular salt may be applied on primary (blue) roads.  Plowing will be required as snow accumulates.  

  • The primary (blue) and secondary (green) roads will receive all available resources.  
  • Once cleared, subdivision main (red) and subdivision (purple) roads will receive plow resources.  
  • If snow accumulates again on the primary and secondary roads, resources will pull out of the neighborhoods to concentrate on the primary and secondary roads.  
  • The subdivision main roads and the subdivision roads will be cleared after the snow event.  
  • The Department of Public Works does not apply granular salt in neighborhood subdivisions.  
  • The only exception will be identified roads with a significant curve or elevation change that creates a hazard. 

Report It!

To request snow removal for a certain municipal street, report a concern. You can also submit a claim for snow plow damage. For questions, contact the Public Works Department at 317-595-3160 or by email.

Meet the Snow Fight Team

Winter Safety Tips

  • Fishers DPW maintains the streets quickly and efficiently so that you can get home safe! Be sure to drive carefully and let our snowplow drivers to do their jobs. 
  • Be sure to clear all snow off of your vehicle so you can see and be seen by others!
  • When it’s snowing or icy, remember to take is slow! Drive below the speed limit and leave plenty of room between you and the car in front of you!
  • Many people don’t know, but it’s never smart to use cruise control on a wet surface like during the snow or after it rains. 
  • Nights get longer in the winter, and that means it’s more important than ever to follow correct driving etiquette. Roadkill peaks in the autumn and winter, so be on the lookout for our furry friends on your way home! 
  • Watch out for black ice! Roads that appear dry may actually be very slick. Slow down when approaching intersections, ramps, bridges, etc. 
  • Rubbing Vaseline on the inside of your car doors can prevent them from freezing over on especially cold mornings.
  • Traveling in the winter means packing the essential supplies and knowing your route ahead of time. In case of dangerous weather, it’s important to let someone else know of your estimated arrival times and location.
  • Store your local AAA phone number in your phone. It’s always better to be prepared for any automobile emergency 
  • It takes much longer to slow your car down on icy roads. 
  • Always remember to check the weather before leaving so you can be fully prepared! 
  • Leave early and give yourself plenty of time so you can reach your destination safely! 
  • Help the Fishers Fire Department and adopt a hydrant in your neighborhood! Shoveling around the hydrants near your home ensures that they are easily accessible in case of emergency. 
  • Clear at least 1 foot around your house exhaust vents and car tailpipe to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. 
  • Carbon Monoxide is a silent killer. Prevent CO2 buildup in your house today by making sure all your vents are cleared and the air you’re breathing doesn’t make you feel dizzy or sick. 
  • It can be temping on chilly mornings, but don’t warm up your car in the garage. Your car releases carbon monoxide, which is odorless and extremely toxic