Average Cost of Snow Plowing in Construction
Snow removal is an essential part of construction and property maintenance in colder climates. Whether it’s a residential driveway, commercial parking lot, or construction site, heavy snow can delay projects, limit accessibility, and even create safety hazards. This is where professional snow plowing services come in.
But how much does snow plowing cost? The average cost of snow plowing in construction depends on several factors, including the size of the area, type of equipment, frequency of service, and geographic location.
This guide explores the average pricing, cost factors, and best practices for budgeting snow plowing services in construction.
Why Snow Plowing Is Important in Construction
- Safety: Prevents slip-and-fall accidents and ensures safe site access.
- Accessibility: Keeps driveways, roads, and lots usable during heavy snowfall.
- Project Continuity: Reduces downtime by keeping construction sites clear.
- Equipment Movement: Allows trucks and machinery to operate without delay.
- Property Protection: Prevents damage caused by ice buildup and compacted snow.
Average Cost of Snow Plowing
On average, snow plowing services cost between $30 and $95 per visit for residential driveways and $100 to $400+ for larger commercial or construction areas.
Common Pricing Structures:
| Pricing Method | Average Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Per Push/Visit | $30 – $95 (residential) $100 – $400+ (commercial) | Light snowfall, occasional needs |
| Per Season Contract | $300 – $700 (residential) $2,000 – $10,000+ (commercial) | Areas with consistent snowstorms |
| Per Hour | $50 – $150 per hour | Large lots, ongoing plowing needs |
| Per Inch of Snow | $30 – $60 for 2–6 inches +$10–$15 per extra inch | Heavy snowfall regions |
Factors Affecting the Cost of Snow Plowing
1. Size of the Area
A small driveway costs much less than a commercial lot or construction site parking area.
2. Type of Property
- Residential: Small driveways typically cost less.
- Commercial: Requires more labor, equipment, and sometimes salting or sanding.
- Construction Sites: Need repeated plowing for equipment access, often costing more.
3. Snowfall Depth
Deeper snow means more time, fuel, and effort, which raises costs.
4. Frequency of Service
Regular service contracts are often more cost-effective than one-time plowing.
5. Geographic Location
Areas with heavy, frequent snow tend to have higher prices due to demand and labor costs.
6. Additional Services
- Salting or sanding: $20 – $40 per application (residential), $100 – $500+ (commercial).
- Snow hauling/removal: $75 – $200 per hour, depending on load size.
- Sidewalk clearing: $25 – $75 per hour.
Residential vs. Commercial Snow Plowing Costs
| Type | Average Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | $30 – $95 per visit | Driveways, small walkways |
| Commercial | $100 – $400+ per visit | Parking lots, office complexes |
| Construction | $150 – $600+ per visit | Ongoing plowing for access roads and staging areas |
Seasonal Contracts vs. Per Visit
- Per Visit: Best for areas with light snowfall or unpredictable winters.
- Seasonal Contracts: Ideal for regions with consistent snowfall, offering unlimited plowing for a flat fee.
- Per Hour: Works best for unpredictable, large-scale snow events.
Tips for Saving Money on Snow Plowing
- Sign seasonal contracts before winter begins for lower rates.
- Bundle services (plowing + salting + sidewalk clearing).
- Compare multiple contractors for competitive pricing.
- Choose per-inch pricing if you live in areas with unpredictable snow.
- Keep areas clear of obstacles to reduce plow time and labor costs.
Conclusion
The average cost of snow plowing in construction ranges from $30 to $95 per residential driveway visit and $100 to $400+ for commercial or construction sites. Prices vary based on area size, snowfall depth, frequency, and contract type.
For construction projects, investing in consistent snow plowing ensures safe operations, minimal downtime, and better project timelines. Choosing the right pricing plan—per visit, per season, or per hour—can help balance costs while keeping your property safe and accessible.
FAQs About Snow Plowing Costs in Construction
Q1. How much does snow plowing cost per season?
Seasonal contracts average $300 – $700 for residential and $2,000 – $10,000+ for commercial or construction sites.
Q2. Do contractors charge more during heavy snowstorms?
Yes. Rates may increase per inch of snow, typically $10–$15 for every inch above 6 inches.
Q3. Is salting included in snow plowing costs?
Not always. Salting usually adds $20 – $40 per residential visit or $100 – $500+ for commercial properties.
Q4. How much does it cost to remove snow from a construction site?
Snow hauling/removal can cost $75 – $200 per hour, depending on the size of the load.
Q5. Can I save money with a seasonal contract?
Yes. Seasonal contracts often reduce per-visit costs and guarantee service during storms.
Q6. Is hourly snow plowing better than per visit?
Hourly pricing is best for large, unpredictable jobs, while per-visit pricing works for small driveways.
Q7. Do snow plowing costs vary by region?
Yes. Areas with heavy snowfall generally have higher rates due to demand and longer plowing times.
