A Guide to Avoiding Tickets
Parking in New York City is serious business even for locals. Parking regulations can change and figuring out what all the signs mean can feel overwhelming at first. We’re breaking down the most common street parking signs to help you avoid pesky tickets and the dreaded tow!
Here’s what you need to know about NYC parking signs and what they mean:
1. Alternate Side Parking
- These signs indicate when parking is prohibited for street cleaning. You might see, “No Parking Tuesday & Friday, 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM”. This means cars must be moved during those hours to allow street sweepers to pass. Alternate-side rules are also suspended on major and some religious holidays, so check out our X account for updates or download the NYC Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Alt Side Parking Calendar.
2. No Standing Anytime
- This sign means you cannot stop or park your car in a particular area at any time, even briefly. These zones are typically found near fire hydrants, bus stops, and major intersections.
3. No Parking Anytime
- While you can’t park or leave your car unattended in these zones, you can stop briefly to pick up or drop off passengers.
4. Metered Parking
- Metered zones are marked by signs that specify hours of operation, such as “2-Hour Metered Parking, 8 AM – 7 PM, Except Sunday.” Parking signs with time specifications will indicate the maximum time allowed for parking in these zones.
- Always check the meter or use the ParkNYC app to pay and avoid fines.
5. Loading Zones
- These signs designate areas where commercial vehicles can load or unload during specified hours. Outside these hours, the area may be available for general parking.
6. School Zones
- Signs near schools often read, “No Parking, School Days, 7 AM – 4 PM.” These restrictions apply on weekdays during the school year but not during summer breaks or holidays.
7. Tow-Away Zones
- Most of the city is one large tow-away zone so paying attention to parking signs is essential. Some areas will specify tow-zones since they are high-priority no-parking areas. Parking here for any period of time risks immediate towing, so you’ll want to pay attention to these signs!
Tips for Navigating NYC Parking Signs:
- Look Up and Around: Zones will often post multiple signs on a single pole. Make sure to read all of them to understand the full set of restrictions.
- Stay Updated: Parking rules can change temporarily due to construction or special events. Keep an eye out for temporary signs and barriers.
Sources: NYC Department of Transportation, NYC Street Cleaning Rules.
