Common questions about Snow Pushers Chicago's snow removal services, pricing, scheduling, and the Winter Pass program. Don't see your question? Call us at (773) 299-9203.
How quickly do you respond after a snowfall?
We monitor storms 24/7 and dispatch crews based on routing — typically beginning service while snow is still falling for active properties, and completing residential routes within hours of snowfall ending. Commercial properties with priority dispatch (Winter Pass holders) get earliest attention. For exact timing on your property, we'll discuss expectations during your quote.
Do I need to be home for snow removal service?
No. Most residential service is performed while clients are at work, traveling, or simply going about their day. We just need clear access to the areas being serviced — which means leaving any gates unlocked or providing gate codes.
How do you handle gangways and tight spaces?
Our crews come equipped with narrow-deck snowblowers and shovels appropriate for Chicago's signature gangway architecture. We handle gangways up to 100 feet as part of standard residential service, and longer or special-access gangways get custom quotes.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Snow Pushers carries full general liability and workers' compensation insurance — critical given Illinois's shared-liability framework for slip-and-fall claims. We can provide certificates of insurance to commercial clients and property managers on request.
What's the difference between the Winter Pass and pay-per-service?
The Winter Pass is prepay credit that draws down as we service your property — buying $499 worth of credit gets you $549, etc. (bonus credit added). It locks rates, ensures priority dispatch, and unused balance converts to a Lawn Pushers spring credit. Pay-per-service means you call us when you need us and we bill per visit at à la carte rates. Same crews either way.
What happens if I don't use all my Winter Pass credit?
Unused credit at season's end converts to a Lawn Pushers spring credit — applied against future lawn care, landscaping, or other services from our sister company. Nothing is lost. (Snow Pushers and Lawn Pushers share owners, crews, and accountability.)
Is salting included in your snow removal services?
Yes — our standard residential ($169) and commercial ($189) snow removal services include salting at no extra charge. Salt-only visits are available for $69 if you need refreeze prevention without a full plow.
What type of salt do you use?
We select the appropriate ice melt product based on the storm conditions — standard rock salt for moderate temperatures, calcium chloride or magnesium chloride blends for extreme cold or sensitive surfaces. The right product for the conditions, not just the cheapest bag.
Do you serve commercial properties?
Yes — commercial work is a major part of our business. We serve restaurants, cafés, retail stores, storefronts, offices, medical practices, multi-tenant residential buildings, gas stations, and industrial properties across Chicago. Major brand clients include Amazon, Tesla, USPS, Walmart, Firestone, Mobil, 7-Eleven, Benihana, AMC Theatres, and many more.
What if Chicago has a record-breaking storm?
Heavy storm events take longer to service for everyone, including us. We add crew capacity for major events and may require additional visits to fully clear a property. Pricing for our standard services covers normal snowfall events; extreme events (12+ inches in one event) may require additional service charges, which we'll communicate transparently before performing the extra work.
Do you do residential AND commercial?
Yes — about 60% of our business is residential, 40% commercial. We serve everything from single-family homes and two-flats up to commercial parking lots with hundreds of spaces.
Can I cancel my Winter Pass mid-season?
Yes. Unused credit can be refunded (minus any services already provided at à la carte rates) or rolled to Lawn Pushers spring credit. We don't lock you in.
Do you provide service in suburbs outside Chicago?
We serve most near-suburbs — Evanston, Oak Park, Skokie, Berwyn, Cicero, Park Ridge, and more. See our coverage areas page or call (773) 299-9203 to confirm service for your specific address.
What does Chicago's snow ordinance actually require?
Chicago Municipal Code 10-8-180 requires every owner, lessee, tenant, occupant, or person in charge of any building or lot to remove snow and ice from public sidewalks immediately after snow stops falling. The ordinance applies to both residential and commercial properties. Failing to comply can result in fines plus slip-and-fall liability exposure. See our sidewalk snow removal page for more detail.
How do I get a quote?
Easiest way: fill out our quote form (takes 2 minutes). Faster way during business hours: call (773) 299-9203. We respond to all quote requests within hours during business hours.
Still Have Questions?
Just give us a call.
Real people, fast answers. Our dispatch line is staffed by humans who actually know Chicago snow removal.