Summit County's annual winter parking restrictions take effect Sunday, Nov. 15, prohibiting most on-street parking along county roads until April 15.

The seasonal restriction allows snowplow crews to clear roads without parked vehicles blocking their work, according to Summit County Public Works.

Parking is prohibited on county roads during that period unless otherwise marked by the county.

Vehicles and other obstacles that interfere with snow removal may be towed or removed at the owner's expense.

Vehicle owners face towing and damage liability

Under Summit County's snow-removal rules, the county is not responsible for damage to vehicles illegally parked in the roadway or objects left in the public right-of-way in violation of county regulations.

Vehicle owners may also be held responsible if an illegally parked vehicle damages county snow-removal equipment.

The restrictions apply from Nov. 15 through April 15, not just during active snowstorms.

County snow-removal crews generally operate between 4 a.m. and 10 p.m., depending on conditions.

Keep shoveled snow off public roads

Property owners must store snow removed from driveways and other private areas on their own property.

Summit County Code prohibits pushing, blowing or shoveling snow into county roads or public rights-of-way.

The county warns that deposited snow can create hazards for motorists and plow operators.

The county right-of-way generally extends 30 feet from the road's centerline. Landscaping, mailboxes and other objects within that area may be at risk during plowing.

Summit County advises residents to mark hydrants and utility structures with poles or signs extending at least six feet above the ground so plow operators can locate them in deep snow.

Snowplow safety reminders

The county asks drivers and pedestrians to keep their distance from snow-removal equipment because operators may have limited visibility.

Residents should not approach moving snowplows to flag down operators.

The county also warns families against allowing children to build snow forts or tunnels in roadside snowbanks. Plows may push additional snow into those banks without warning.

Residents can review winter parking restrictions, snow-storage rules and other guidance on the county's official snowplowing information page.