Snow Removal
During and after a snowfall, it’s important that everyone work together to make sure that the streets and sidewalks are cleared and don’t become icy. If a significant amount of snow or ice falls, it may take several days to completely clear the parking lots, drive lanes and sidewalks, so we ask for your patience and cooperation while snow removal efforts are underway.
Cabin Branch HOA is responsible for plowing all alleys and common area parking lots. Note: HOA snow removal begins once the snow accumulates to 2 inches or more and repeats as necessary during the event.
Montgomery County is responsible for plowing all roadways except the alleys. Note: all major County roads and primary routes are prioritized first, followed by neighborhood streets. This may affect the timeliness of the HOA snow removal contractors.
Single family and townhome owners are responsible for shoveling sidewalks that are in front of or next to their homes, including the lead sidewalk and main sidewalks that run parallel to the roadway. Additionally, owners are responsible for clearing the driveways and driveway aprons. Note, this is a County law and not an HOA rule.
Cabin Branch HOA is responsible for shoveling common area sidewalks that run parallel to a roadway but are not in front of or next to a home.
Roadways Maintained by Montgomery County
Use the following links to check on their progress and/or to report problems:
- To check on the status of the County’s snow removal operations
- To report a problem, such as an area that was missed for snow clearing
- To view guidelines for clearing sidewalks
- To view Frequently Asked Questions regarding County snow removal operations
Roadways Maintained by Cabin Branch
Use the following links to report a problem with snow removal.
- Contact the on site office by email ([email protected])
- Contact the main office by e-mail ([email protected])
- Submit a service request through the Owner Portal (https://portal.tmgainc.com)
- Contact us by phone during business hours at 301-540-6010 and after hours at 301-948-6666 to report a non-life threatening problem or concern
Because we are coordinating snow removal efforts, we may not be able to respond immediately; however, your concern will be reviewed and forwarded on to the snow removal crews.
Sidewalks Maintained by the County, Community or Each Resident
In general, if the sidewalk is adjacent to your property, then you are responsible for shoveling it. Per County law, homeowners are required to clear the snow/ice from the community sidewalks in front of and adjacent to their homes (next to their private lots) within 24 hours after the snow event has ended. Do not use rock salt on the concrete sidewalks as this will cause them to deteriorate. Instead, use products containing Calcium Magnesium Acetate or Magnesium Chloride, which will effectively melt ice without damaging the sidewalk or nearby grass and landscaping.
The Community is responsible for shoveling sidewalks that run adjacent to roadways and parking lots that are not directly in front of or next to homes. The Association also is responsible for clearing out handicap parking spaces, fire hydrants, storm drains and around cluster mailboxes. The Community is not responsible for shoveling walking trails or recreational paths if they aren’t adjacent to a roadway or parking lot. To report a problem with sidewalk snow shoveling, fill out an online form, contact us by e-mail, or call us.
The County is responsible for shoveling all sidewalks along County roadways that do not fall under yours or the Association’s area of responsibility. You can report any problems directly to Montgomery County.
Power Outages
For power outages or downed power lines please contact Potomac Edison (First Energy):.
By Text Message
To report an outage: Text OUT to 544487 (LIGHTS).
If you’re not enrolled in text messaging, text REG to 544487 to get started.
To receive the latest update for your reported outage: Text STAT to 544487.
By Telephone
To report an outage call 1-888-LIGHTSS (1-888-544-4877).
Accessibility
Customers with a communication disability can report an outage using the appropriate TTY/TDD relay service. When you call, please provide the following information:
• Street address of the outage location
• Knowledge of whether or not your neighbors have power (if possible)
• Phone number where you can be reached
You can also report an outage using their online form or by text messaging.
Downed trees in the common areas
Please call the management office at 301-540-6010 or email [email protected]. After hours, contact the main office at 301-48-6666 or [email protected]. Provide as much information as you can when reporting (location, nearest address or cross street, etc.).
Please remember:
Do not park on the street or in the alleys. Please use your garage and driveway so that the County and Association snowplows can clear as much of the snow as possible and push the snow to the sides of the street to create wider drive lanes. Vehicles parked on the roadway will likely be plowed in.
Don’t shovel snow into the street or alley. When you shovel out your car, driveway and sidewalks, pile snow on the grass, particularly if the plow has already come through.
Be prepared for disruptions to your electrical service. Before the storm, make sure that all cell phones, tablets and other devices are fully charged. Have battery operated flashlights available. Use candles sparingly and only where they will not create a fire hazard.
Anyone requiring or needing power for any lifesaving equipment/devices may wish to consider finding an alternate location to stay that is closer to a hospital or fire department.
Please ensure children and pets are dressed warmly and appropriately. Temperatures following the storm can remain below freezing throughout the week.
