People might attempt to clear icy roads for themselves, it is suggested.
Hazardous driving conditions are still affecting travel in many parts of the UK, with snow and ice remaining a problem.
But transport minister Philip Hammond told BBC Breakfast it is up to individuals to help one another and to get themselves out of their properties.
"People have always dug their way out of their own driveways ... and I would encourage people who are able to do that kind of thing to continue doing it for themselves and for neighbours who are perhaps less able to," he stated.
This is a result of councils having to decide which roads to grit, the politician claimed, perhaps suggesting not all of them will be cleared.
Salt might be provided to members of the public for use on the treacherous residential streets, he explained.
Mr Hammond's comments followed a freezing night, with the Met Office warning much of Britain will be affected by icy roads that might not have been gritted.
The BBC noted Edinburgh and other parts of Scotland have been particularly hard hit by the weather, with the possibility of the Army being drafted in to help to clear some of the routes.
Transport Scotland advised people against travelling unless it was "absolutely essential" and those heading to airports in the country were being warned to check their flight times before setting off.
Mr Hammond went on to suggest people follow the government's code of practice, which offers legal protection for those who do attempt to clear the snow for themselves.
Directgov explains there is no law to stop people from doing this on the pavement outside their home or in public spaces.
Posted by Dennis Clarke
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