De-icing containers stolen, salt stored outdoors in St. Petersburg

At a St. Petersburg legislative meeting, an official reported that de-icing materials are stored on streets due to container theft. He later clarified that thefts are rare and storage is for processing.

Apr 20, 2026

At a meeting of the permanent commission on urban economy of the Legislative Assembly of St. Petersburg on February 2, the head of the technical management of the housing committee, Andrei Dzhalalov, spoke about the forced storage of anti-icing reagents right on the streets.

Deputy Mikhail Amosov drew attention to complaints from citizens related to piles of salt that workers leave in courtyards for subsequent distribution. He requested explanations on the established regulations for storing these materials.

Explaining the situation, Dzhalalov stated: “The problem is that initially there was an issue of centralization… Special containers are purchased. There is a problem: they are simply stolen. Perhaps for a dacha: needed it, liked it. Housing agencies and organizations are trying to monitor this situation and change it in a timely manner.”

The official added that for the anti-icing agent «Bionord,» there are strict storage requirements. This reagent is used in frosty weather or in targeted areas, for example, under drainpipes.

Touching on the topic of snow removal, Dzhalalov noted that the housing committee is generally provided with the necessary resources. Problems arise when cleaning courtyards occupied by parked cars. Deputy Alexander Khodosok reminded about a legislative initiative in development that would allow the evacuation of vehicles idle for more than 30 days. Its legality is currently being studied by lawyers.

The deputy chairman of the committee on improvement at the same meeting reported that during periods of heavy snowfall, the capacity of snow-melting points is insufficient. Therefore, the city still cannot do without reloading points and temporary snow storage. It is planned that by 2030, three new snow-melting points will open in St. Petersburg.

Later, Andrei Dzhalalov gave additional clarifications, stating that his initial words were taken out of context. He emphasized that theft of containers is rare, and their breakdown is part of the normal work situation. Temporary storage of salt in open areas of courtyards, according to him, is related to preparation for loading into cleaning equipment and subsequent distribution across the territory.