Isabella Carter
Chicago's street parking system consists of over 36,000 metered spaces, residential permit areas, overnight parking spaces, and some free parking. The rules governing the parking of special vehicle types, such as trucks, vans, and buses, are outlined under Section 9-64-170 of the Municipal Code of Chicago. These rules prohibit the parking of certain vehicle types on business streets and residential areas, with exceptions for expeditious loading and unloading, business use, and taxicabs under specific conditions. Chicago also offers various parking permits, including industrial, non-commercial loading zone, and residential permits, to accommodate the needs of different users. Meter rates vary across locations, typically ranging from $2 to $6.50 per hour, and it's important to follow parking rules to avoid tickets and fines.
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What You'll Learn
Parking meter rates
- Lincoln Park: $5 for 2 hours
- West Town: $3 for 2 hours
- Noble Square: $5 for 2 hours
- Roscoe Village: $2.50 for 2 hours
It's important to note that parking meter rates in Chicago have not increased since 2013, even though the consumer price index has. If the city doesn't add more parking spaces or raise rates, they will have to compensate the parking meter concessionaire for the lost revenue.
To avoid this, the city has implemented a formula that ties meter rate increases to inflation. This means that rates will increase incrementally over time to keep up with inflation. For example, the hourly rate in the West Loop increased from $2 to $4.50.
Additionally, there are some locations with unique parking meter rates:
- The 2800 block of South Wabash Avenue: $0.50 per hour
- The 1200 block of West Greenleaf Avenue (north side): $0.50 per hour
- Recreation Drive, from 3869 to 4000: $0.50 per hour
It's worth mentioning that Chicago also has some areas with 24-hour parking meters, where the rate is 50% of the applicable rate during specific hours.
When using parking meters in Chicago, it's important to be aware of potential convenience fees. For transactions under two hours through the ParkChicago app or on-street pay boxes, a $0.35 convenience fee is charged.
To find free parking in Chicago, it is recommended to use a real-time parking map that displays parking rates on every street.
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Parking restrictions
Chicago has various parking restrictions in place, which vary depending on the type of vehicle, location, and time of year.
Vehicle Type
The city has specific rules governing the parking of special types of vehicles, as outlined in Section 9-64-170 of the Municipal Code of Chicago. Generally, trucks, truck tractors, semi-trailers, trailers, self-contained motor homes, commercial vehicles, and buses are prohibited from parking on business streets at any time. However, there are exceptions for expeditious loading and unloading, business use, and designated bus stands.
Location
Time of Year
Street parking rules also change depending on the time of year. Between December 1 and March 31, vehicles should not be left parked overnight on main streets. Additionally, between April 1 and mid-November, street sweepers are active, and vehicles must be kept off the street during the posted street cleaning times to avoid fines or towing.
Time Limits
Most Chicago street parking spaces are limited to two-hour increments, and vehicles that exceed this time will be ticketed. It's important to keep an eye on the time or set up alerts to avoid parking tickets.
Other Restrictions
Other general parking restrictions in Chicago include staying within 12 inches of the curb, keeping a certain distance from crosswalks, stop signs, fire hydrants, and avoiding parking in bus or bike lanes. Additionally, vehicles should not be parked on sidewalks, parkways, or crosswalks, and alley parking should be limited to loading or unloading.
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Parking permits
Parking in Chicago can be a tricky affair, with rules and regulations to follow to avoid fines and tickets. The city offers various parking permits to cater to different needs, whether it's for residents, businesses, or special vehicle types.
Residential Parking Permits
Chicago has implemented a Residential Parking Permit (RPP) system to manage parking in areas where residents face challenges due to a high number of non-resident vehicles. Residents within these designated zones can purchase daily permits or include a zone number on their city sticker. The permits are valid for 24 hours from the time of display and cost $15 for a sheet of 15 permits or $30 for two sheets (30 permits). To be eligible for a residential permit, individuals must provide proof of residency and government-issued ID.
Business Parking Permits
Businesses that require loading zones for deliveries and service calls in commercial districts can obtain Non-Commercial Loading Zone Permits. Additionally, the Industrial Parking Permit enables businesses to provide legal parking for employees and visitors directly adjacent to the business property.
Special Vehicle Parking Permits
Chicago also has specific regulations for parking certain types of vehicles, such as trucks, vans, buses, and commercial vehicles. These vehicles are generally prohibited from parking on business streets, except during expeditious loading and unloading or when conducting business, in which case they must display the business name and license number. Taxicabs are also restricted from parking on business streets between 2:00 AM and 7:00 AM for more than two hours, with specific exemptions in certain wards and areas. Pick-up trucks and vans weighing less than 8,000 pounds can park on residential streets without a special permit in several designated bounded areas.
General Parking Tips
To avoid parking tickets, it's important to follow regulations such as staying within 12 inches of the curb, keeping a certain distance from crosswalks, stop signs, and fire hydrants, and avoiding parking in bus or bike lanes. Parking rates vary by location, typically ranging from $2 to $6.50 per hour, and most street parking spaces have a two-hour limit. It's also important to be mindful of street cleaning schedules, as vehicles left on the street during those times may be fined or towed.
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Parking fines
Parking in Chicago can be a tricky business, with many rules and regulations to follow. Failure to comply with these rules can result in parking fines, which can be costly and inconvenient. Here are some of the key things to keep in mind to avoid parking fines in Chicago:
Time Restrictions: Most Chicago street parking spaces have a two-hour time limit, and vehicles must be moved after this time to avoid a fine. It's important to keep an eye on the time and set reminders, as parking enforcement officers actively monitor these time restrictions.
Street Cleaning: Between April 1 and mid-November, street cleaning takes place in Chicago. The city will post signs to notify residents of the street cleaning schedule. It is important to keep vehicles off the street during the posted times, usually between 9 am and 3 pm, to avoid a $50 fine or even towing.
Residential Parking Permits: In certain residential areas of Chicago, parking permits are required. These permits must be displayed on the vehicle, and failure to do so can result in a fine.
Special Vehicle Restrictions: There are specific rules governing the parking of special types of vehicles, including trucks, vans, buses, and commercial vehicles. These vehicles are generally prohibited from parking on business streets and residential streets, except during expeditious loading and unloading or when conducting business.
Parking Meter Rates: Parking meter rates vary across Chicago, typically ranging from $2 to $6.50 per hour. It's important to pay attention to the rates and ensure that the meter is fed accordingly to avoid a parking ticket.
No-Parking Zones: There are several no-parking zones in Chicago that drivers should be aware of. These include bus lanes, bike lanes, within 12 inches of a curb, too close to crosswalks, stop signs, fire hydrants, and sidewalks. Parking in these areas can result in a fine.
Winter Parking Restrictions: During the winter months, there are additional parking restrictions in Chicago. Between December 1 and March 31, vehicles should not be left parked overnight on main streets, and parking is prohibited if there is over 2 inches of snow.
To contest a parking fine in Chicago, vehicle owners can submit a dispute by mail or call the number provided on the fine notice. It is important to note that challenging a ticket does not delay the payment deadline.
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Parking during street cleaning
Parking in Chicago during street cleaning can be a challenge, but with some planning, you can avoid fines and keep your car safe. The street cleaning season in Chicago typically runs from April 1 to November 30, and during this period, street sweepers come through the city once a month to clean the streets. Here are some important things to know and tips to follow:
Know the Schedule and Signs
Chicago's street cleaning occurs by ward, and each area has its own schedule. The city's Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) is responsible for street cleaning, and they post signs to notify drivers of parking restrictions. In residential areas, bright orange paper "no-parking" signs are usually posted 24 to 48 hours in advance of street sweeping. These signs indicate the day and time of street sweeping and are placed on street poles, trees, and other visible locations. Commercial areas may have permanent signs indicating the street cleaning schedule. It's important to pay attention to these signs and plan your parking accordingly.
Move Your Car
During street cleaning, it's crucial to keep your car off the street. Street cleaning typically occurs between 6 am and 9 am, and parking is prohibited during this time. Make sure to move your car to a permitted parking area or a private driveway. If you don't, you may face a fine of up to $60 or even have your car towed.
Use Real-Time Information and Apps
To make things easier, you can take advantage of real-time information and apps. The SpotAngels app, for example, connects to your car's Bluetooth and automatically sets a reminder for street cleaning each time you park. Other parking apps can also provide current information about street cleaning schedules and available parking spots.
Understand Special Circumstances
In some cases, street cleaning may be extended beyond the scheduled season if there is no snow. Additionally, unlike many other cities, Chicago does not suspend street cleaning on major holidays. So, be prepared for potential street cleaning any day between April and November.
Know the Rules for Residential and Permit Parking
Some streets in Chicago require a residential permit for parking. Make sure to display your city sticker with the correct Residential Zone Parking number. If you're visiting someone in a permit-required area, they may have a guest pass for you to use.
In summary, parking during street cleaning in Chicago requires staying informed, planning ahead, and being mindful of signage and schedules. By following these tips, you can avoid fines and contribute to the cleanliness of the city.
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Frequently asked questions
A business street in Chicago is any street where parking is prohibited for vehicles such as trucks, truck tractors, semi-trailers, trailers, self-contained motorhomes, commercial vehicles, or buses.
The parking restrictions on business streets in Chicago do not apply to vehicles engaged in the expeditious loading or unloading of passengers, merchandise, or other contents. They also don't apply to vehicles actively conducting business, which must display the business name and license number on the vehicle.
To obtain a special parking permit for a commercial vehicle in Chicago, you must contact your local alderman, who is responsible for issuing these permits. The permit will include specific information such as the vehicle's license plate number, the designated parking area, and the expiration date.
