Snow removal in Canada typically costs between $50–$150 per visit for residential driveways, $150–$500+ per visit for commercial properties, or $2,000–$25,000+ per season for commercial seasonal contracts, depending on location, snowfall volume, snow type, property size, and service level.
In high-snow regions like Interior British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec, most commercial clients choose seasonal, all-inclusive contracts to control costs and ensure safety during unpredictable winters.
At Lyons Landscaping, we manage snow removal across some of Canada’s most challenging winter conditions. Below, we’ll break down what actually drives snow removal costs, why pricing varies so much by region, and how to budget accurately.
Average Snow Removal Costs in Canada (Quick Breakdown)
Residential Snow Removal
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Per visit: $50–$150
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Monthly contracts: $150–$400
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Seasonal contracts: $500–$1,500+
Residential pricing is usually based on driveway length, slope, and how frequently snow falls.
Commercial & Industrial Snow Removal
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Per visit: $150–$500+
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Seasonal contracts: $2,000–$25,000+
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Large industrial or HOA sites: $25,000–$100,000+ per season
Commercial properties cost more because they require faster response times, higher safety standards, multiple services, and more equipment.
For homeowners and businesses looking for predictable pricing and dependable winter service, our 24/7 snow removal and ice management services are designed to keep driveways, walkways, and parking areas safe and fully accessible all winter long.
What Factors Most Influence Snow Removal Costs?
While many variables affect pricing, three factors matter more than anything else.
Snowfall Volume & Snow Type
Not all snow is the same.
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Dry, fluffy snow: ~5–10 lbs per cubic foot
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Wet, heavy snow or slush: 30+ lbs per cubic foot
That difference alone can triple the workload and cost. Warmer winters across Canada are producing heavier, wetter snow, which increases equipment strain, labor time, and hauling requirements.
This is why reliable snow removal during major storms matters — as highlighted in No Warm-Up. No Excuses. Just Winter. — preparation and response speed directly affect both safety and cost.
Property Size, Layout & Complexity
We assess:
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Total square footage
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Number of entrances and exits
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Steep slopes or hills
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Islands, curbs, and obstacles
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Shaded vs. sun-exposed areas
In Interior BC, for example, two properties a few hundred metres apart can have completely different temperatures and ice risks, which directly affects pricing.
Service Level & Timing Requirements
Costs increase when properties require:
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Overnight or early-morning clearing
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24-hour operational access
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Bare-pavement standards
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Immediate clearing during active snowfall
A warehouse open 24/7 costs significantly more to maintain than an office that opens at 9 a.m.
How Snow Removal Is Priced: Per Visit vs Seasonal Contracts
Per-Visit or Hourly Pricing
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Common for small or low-risk sites
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Higher risk of surprise costs during heavy winters
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Often leads to delayed service during peak storms
Seasonal “All-Inclusive” Contracts (Most Common for Commercial)
At Lyons, we strongly prefer shared-risk, seasonal contracts, which:
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Spread costs evenly over 5–6 months
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Cover light and heavy snowfall years
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Ensure trained crews are always available
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Reduce liability and emergency call-outs
This approach protects both the client and the contractor from unpredictable winters.
How Equipment & Services Affect Snow Removal Costs
Basic plowing costs are fairly consistent, but prices increase when additional services are required:
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Pre-treating (liquid de-icers): Prevents bonding before snowfall
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Post-treating (salt or sand): Improves safety after clearing
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Snow blowing: Required when snow must leave the site immediately
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Snow hauling: Dump trucks, loaders, and off-site disposal
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Hand shoveling & walkways: Labour-intensive but essential for safety
Properties with limited snow storage space almost always cost more.
Regional Snow Removal Cost Differences in Canada
Yes — location matters.
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Interior British Columbia: Variable elevations, frequent freeze-thaw, slopes
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Alberta: High volume, dry snow but frequent events
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Ontario & Quebec: Wet snow, ice events, dense urban traffic
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Urban vs rural: Urban sites cost more due to tighter timelines and safety demands
Busy commercial zones and municipal-style sites require more equipment in less time, which increases pricing.
How to Balance Snow Removal Costs, Safety & Reliability
Our biggest recommendation: choose a full-season contract.
Why?
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Predictable monthly budgeting
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No scrambling during storms
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Fully insured, trained operators
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Pre-planned snow storage and priority areas
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One point of contact for all services
Snow removal isn’t something you want to source last-minute. Contractors who answer emergency calls during storms often lack insurance, experience, or proper equipment — creating liability risks that cost far more than proper planning.
The same principle applies across large projects, which we break down in our article on the real cost drivers behind expensive landscaping projects.
Final Thoughts: What Should You Budget for Snow Removal in Canada?
If you’re budgeting:
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Residential: $500–$1,500 per season
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Small commercial: $2,000–$8,000 per season
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Large commercial / industrial / HOA: $15,000–$50,000+ per season
The real cost of snow removal isn’t just plowing — it’s risk management, safety, and reliability during unpredictable winters.
If you’re planning for winter services, the earlier you prepare, the more control you’ll have over both costs and outcomes.
