Winter in Toronto - snow, sidewalks, heat and cold-weather help

Newcomers commonly report that:

• Snow, ice and cold spells shape daily life for several months, and warm boots, layers, a hat and gloves make a big difference.
• Neighbours have snow duties. Property owners must clear their own driveways, steps and walkways, and are not allowed to push snow onto the sidewalk or road.
• The City clears most sidewalks after heavier snowfalls, which surprises people from places where every resident shovels the pavement in front of their home.
• Apartments are kept warm by law. Toronto requires landlords to keep rental units at a minimum temperature during the heating season.

Sidewalks and snow: the City of Toronto clears about 98% of sidewalks. Crews start when 2 cm of snow has fallen and the snow has stopped, or when it is icy; clearing usually takes about 12 hours and can continue up to 72 hours. When less than 2 cm falls, residents and businesses must clear the sidewalk next to their property within 12 hours after the snowfall ends. Private walkways, steps and driveways must be cleared within 24 hours. Pushing snow onto sidewalks, roads or bike lanes can lead to a $500 fine plus a $110 victim surcharge (City of Toronto, 2026).

Heat in rental housing: Toronto requires landlords to keep rental units at a minimum of 21°C from October 1 to May 15. If your heat is not working, tell your landlord or property manager first; if it is not fixed within 24 hours, call 311 so the City can investigate. The by-law is being renamed the Indoor Temperature Standards By-law from June 1, 2026.

Very cold days: during the City's cold weather season (November 15 to April 15 in 2025-2026), warming centres generally open when Environment and Climate Change Canada forecasts -5°C or issues a winter weather warning. They are open to anyone who needs a warm place, with no referral needed. For someone who needs shelter or outreach, call 311; in an emergency, call 911.

Driving: the Government of Ontario recommends four winter tires (with the three-peak mountain snowflake symbol) and a winter survival kit in the car, and some insurers offer a discount for winter tires. Road conditions on provincial highways are on Ontario 511.

• Houses and apartments: in an apartment or condominium, the building handles snow clearing; in a rented house, your lease should say whether you or the landlord clears snow.
• Weather varies from year to year and week to week; check the forecast and any City alerts during cold spells.