Restrictions on Non-Resident Street Parking in Chicago

Restrictions on Non-Resident Street Parking in Chicago - Modern city district with skyscrapers near green lawn

There seem to be three types of on-street parking in Chicago: Metered parking, Residential Zone parking and all other areas.

I am right in understanding that there is no charge or permit required for street parking in the "other" areas (unless specifically posted)?

It looks like overnight parking in those areas can be restricted by the Winter Overnight Parking Ban and a possible 2” inch snow ban (December - March), or for a street sweeping (April - November). Are there other blanket restrictions, like maximum number of hours or days parked, for these areas?

Could I leave a car parked for a week in an area that is not metered, not part of a Residential Zone parking area, not affected by a Winter Overnight Parking Ban, and not subject to the 2” inch snow ban? Or respectively outside of Winter, an area that isn't up for street sweeping?



Best Answer

It would be very difficult for you to find such a spot. About a year ago, any of the free and clear parking I knew of was sold off, and meters were installed.

Even if you do find a spot, there are a lot of reasons in the city for which your car would be towed. Construction pops up with little notice. If you're more towards downtown, parades and other temporary permits will block off streets. Street festivals are a problem in summer months in neighborhoods.

I would recommend snagging a parking spot with SpotHero, Park Whiz, or one of the similar parking services. They're a lot cheaper than a typical lot, and you know where you can park ahead of time. I usually would go for the spots under the CTA tracks, as they were cheapest and there was always parking available.




Pictures about "Restrictions on Non-Resident Street Parking in Chicago"

Restrictions on Non-Resident Street Parking in Chicago - Surface with numbers and letters for private parking
Restrictions on Non-Resident Street Parking in Chicago - Drone top view over modern roundabout road located amidst suburban houses and big parking area
Restrictions on Non-Resident Street Parking in Chicago - Contemporary megapolis architecture against cloudless sky



Can you park on the streets of Chicago?

In the Central Business District, free overnight street parking starts at midnight. Except during peak winter, you can legally park overnight on most streets in Chicago \u2013 but looking out for residential permits. Always check posted signs to make sure parking is allowed.

Do you need a permit to park on the street in Chicago?

Chicago residents living within a Residential Parking Zone are required to display a residential parking permit. You can purchase these either in person at city hall or online. They cost about $85-200 annually depending on the size and model of your car, with a minimum $200 fine for not having one displayed.

How do I know if I can park on the street in Chicago?

Use the city's Zone Look up App to see if your street qualifies for permit parking.

Is it illegal to park on curb in Chicago?

You cannot park your vehicle more than 12 inches from a curb. This restriction is designed to encourage the free flow of traffic by ensuring that vehicles are not impeded by parked vehicles that are too far out into the roadway.



Neighbors upset over HOA parking rules




Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.

Images: Ricardo Esquivel, Harry Cooke, Mikkel Kvist, Ricardo Esquivel