For a map of which streets are plowed by VDOT versus private contractor click here.  Other areas (Estates I, Estates II, The Hunt) are all plowed by VDOT.

For a quick sheet of VDOT's Snow Removal FAQs click here.

The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is responsible for removing snow and ice from the thousands of miles of public roads in Fairfax County. Clearing is done on a priority basis, with emergency, interstates and high volume roads cleared first and then secondary roads and subdivisions. For concerns about snow removal operations, contact VDOT at 703-383-8368, TTY 711. Last year the Dranesville Office received hundred of inquiries about snow removal. To assist with potential concerns regarding snow storms in the 2007—2008 winter season, see our frequently asked question-answer grid or visit us online.

How can I get my street on VDOT’s list of roads to be plowed?  There is no such list. If a road is a state road, VDOT is responsible for clearing it. VDOT roads have black and white route number signs attached to either a stop sign or a street name sign. Before it snows, check to see whether or not your street is state-maintained.

If your street is not identified with a route number sign, it is most likely privately maintained. Snow removal on privately maintained roads is the responsibility of the property owners along the road or the homeowner association. If a street in a townhouse or condominium complex is not posted with a state route number, it is a private street that is the responsibility of the homeowner/condominium association to plow.

Pipestem driveways are privately owned and maintained by the property owners on the pipestem.

Fairfax County plows only a few miles of designated sections of roadway that are in the Fairfax County Road Maintenance and Improvement Program. These road sections are identified by blue signs that say, "Fairfax County Maintained Here to XXX feet." For snow removal on these street sections, please contact the Maintenance & Stormwater Management Division at 703-934-2800, TTY 711 or by email. For information regarding snow and ice removal within a subdivision currently under bond, contact the Environmental and Facilities Inspections Division at 703-324-1950, TTY 711.

Fairfax County plows at its own facilities including public safety buildings government centers, judicial complex, libraries, and community centers. Government centers and public safety facilities have the highest priority in order for emergency responders to access offices to serve you. We also clear snow from county-maintained park-and-ride and commuter rail station lots. Snow clearance for facilities under the jurisdiction of the county's Department of Housing and Community Development, the Fairfax County Park Authority, and Fairfax County Public Schools is the responsibility of those agencies, respectively.

Why might I see VDOT plows driving with their plows up when it is snowing?  Trucks may be spreading salt and sand. Trucks may be out of salt and sand and headed back to a maintenance yard for a refill. Or, they may be en-route to their assigned area. Be assured that once it snows, VDOT crews work round-the-clock until Northern Virginia roads are clear.

What does VDOT use to clear roads?  Interstates, primary roads and high volume secondary roads are treated with a mixture of salt and liquid calcium or magnesium chloride. Subdivisions and low volume roads are plowed then sanded as needed.

Can VDOT treat the roads before it snows?  Putting salt on roads prior to snowfall wastes time and money because the salt blows off the roadway. Below 20 degrees, salt is mixed with sand for traction. Liquid calcium chloride or magnesium is used to melt the snow and ice. Salt is most effective after snow has accumulated about an inch and the temperature is 20 degrees or higher.

Why does it take so long to clear subdivision streets during major storms?  Heavy, deep snows, and ice slow plow truck progress so it may take longer for plows to reach your street. Narrow streets, hills and curves, cars left parked on streets and smaller cul-de-sacs also slow plowing operations. Please don’t leave cars on streets.

What should my subdivision street look like after a major snowstorm?  During snowstorms of 8 inches or more, your street will have only one travel lane plowed initially and it may be snow-packed, making all-weather tires a must. Crews will continue plowing until your roadway is clear.

Why do snowplows block my driveway with snow when they clear the road?  Snowplow operators push snow off roadways in smooth, continuous passes. The snow ends up on roadway shoulders, in gutters and sometimes blocking driveways. Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid this inconvenience. To avoid double work, try to shovel snow from your driveway after plows have passed.  And, try to shovel the snow to the right side of your driveway as you face the road.

Who is responsible for clearing snow from the sidewalks?  VDOT and Fairfax County do not clear snow and ice from sidewalks or trails. While not legally obligated, citizens and businesses are encouraged to be good neighbors and keep sidewalks safe. As soon as possible, clear snow off the sidewalks in front of your property so that all pedestrians, especially children, those with disabilities, and the elderly, may walk securely.  Some homeowner associations require members to clear walkways abutting their property.