Is now a good time to start pruning?

Depends on where you live. If you are still expecting snow, I would hold off for a bit longer.

I agree with Naomie, it is best to wait until you know that the cold weather and snow is behind you. Unless you live in the south where your winter is over quickly, be safe and leave the protection in place for a while longer. This has been a weird winter.

I live in central Illinois. Our winters are brutal. I follow the Old Farmer's Method when it comes to pruning. From Spring thru Fall, only prune during months that have an "R" in their name. For example, it's OK to prune in April, but not in May. May does not contain an R. I have used this method for many years and it has worked well for me. I like it because it's easy to remember. Best of luck to you.

Depends on what you want to prune....If you are in a colder climate leave the debris for added protection until after the danger of anymore snow

Now is a good time to prune apples. It's too early to remove winter mulch