Winter road and pavement maintenance

Salt bins

Salt bins are located across the city to enable people to carry out immediate self-help treatment of roads and pavements. Find your nearest salt bin on the map of gritting routes and salt bins in Edinburgh, or search our directory of salt bin locations, which provides an A-Z listing by street.

Requesting a Salt Bin

Only written requests for a new salt bin will be considered.

• A new salt bin will not be sited within 100 metres of another bin.
• Salt bins will not block the passage of pedestrians or be sited in private areas.
• Salt bins will not be removed outwith the winter period.

Clearing snow and ice

Follow these hints and tips for the best and safest way to clear snow and ice:

• Wear warm clothes and footwear with a good grip. Don't take risks on the road and wear visible clothing so you can be seen.
• Try to clear snow or ice early. It's easier to move loose snow and the sun will help melt ice.
• Clear a small path down the middle of the pavement for a safe surface to walk on then shovel from the centre to the kerbside. Don't block paths, driveways or drains.
• Use salt or sand - not water, as it will freeze. Ordinary table salt can be used, and you can also buy bags of rock salt from DIY shops. Use more salt on steps and steep pathways. Sand gives a good grip, but won't stop the path icing over. Salting areas before snow falls makes snow clearance easier.

There is no law stopping you from clearing snow and ice from pavements. The Scottish Government has provided useful guidance and advice on clearing paths and driveways in severe weather situations.