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Lewistown discusses new snow-route ordinance: tiered routes, odd-even parking and 2-inch trigger
Summary
The commission reviewed a draft ordinance to designate tier 1 and tier 2 snow routes, extend seasonal restrictions to Nov. 1–May 1, define a 2-inch trigger for declared snow events, and set fines of $25/$50/$100; commissioners asked for clearer timing definitions and more outreach.
The City of Lewistown Commission held an extended discussion of a proposed ordinance to amend Lewistown City Code section 10.5.3, creating tier 1 and tier 2 snow-route designations, expanding the seasonal enforcement window and adding penalties for violations.
City Manager Holly Phelps presented the draft language, which would prohibit parking on tier 1 routes during a declared snow event and impose odd-even parking rules on tier 2 streets during the season that runs Nov. 1 through May 1. The draft defines a snow event as a NOAA forecast of more than 2 inches or actual accumulation of 2 inches or more over a 24-hour noon-to-noon period. Penalties proposed are $25 for a first offense, $50 for a second and $100 for third or subsequent offenses within a rolling 365-day period.
Phelps said the city manager would notify the public if a snow event is declared and that the registered vehicle owner would be responsible for removal; vehicles left at repair shops could still generate tickets. Commissioners raised several operational questions, including who declares a snow event, the need to define how an “even” or “odd” calendar day is applied overnight (for example, vehicles left at 2 a.m.), and how to communicate the rules to renters and nonresident owners. Commissioner Robertson recommended adding precise definitions for calendar-day timing (suggested: evening through 7 a.m.) to avoid confusion for late-night arrivals.
Commissioners and staff discussed outreach plans. Phelps said the city plans annual notices, maps in local media and social media posts, placement at city hall and public works, and possibly door‑to‑door hangers the first year. Commissioners cautioned that enforcement should be accompanied by public education and that a phased approach is likely necessary.
The item was presented as a discussion; no ordinance vote was taken at the meeting. Staff will revise language to clarify timing for odd/even parking and return the draft to the commission for future consideration.
