Decoding parking signs can be a bit challenging, but understanding them is essential to avoid parking tickets or towing. Parking signs typically contain a combination of words, symbols, and colors to convey specific regulations. Here’s a handy guide to help you decode common parking signs:
- No Parking Sign:
- Red circle with a white horizontal line: No parking is allowed at any time.
- Look for additional information, such as time restrictions or days of the week, which might provide exceptions.
- No Stopping Sign:
- Red circle with a white horizontal line and a white “STOP” symbol: You cannot stop your vehicle in this area, even momentarily.
- No Standing Sign:
- Red circle with a white horizontal line and a white “STAND” symbol: You cannot stand your vehicle in this area, typically used in loading zones.
- Time-Limited Parking Sign:
- Numerical information: Indicates the maximum amount of time you can park.
- Arrows: Specifies the direction in which the parking restriction applies.
- Be sure to follow the time limit and move your vehicle before it expires.
- Parking Permit Required Sign:
- Blue square with a white “P” symbol: Parking is allowed only for vehicles with the appropriate permit.
- Make sure you have the required permit if you park in such areas.
- Handicapped Parking Sign:
- Blue square with a white wheelchair symbol: Reserved for vehicles with proper handicapped placards or license plates.
- Parking here without authorization can result in fines and towing.
- Loading Zone Sign:
- Blue square with a white truck symbol: Indicates an area designated for loading and unloading goods.
- Observe time limits and use it only for its intended purpose.
- Tow Away Zone Sign:
- Red “TOW AWAY ZONE” wording: Parking here may result in your vehicle being towed at your expense.
- Fire Hydrant Sign:
- Red “FIRE HYDRANT” wording with a red arrow or line pointing to a hydrant: Do not park within a specified distance (usually 15 feet) from the hydrant.
- Bus Stop Sign:
- Red and white sign with a bus symbol: No parking is allowed in a bus stop area.
- Violating this rule can disrupt public transportation and result in fines.
- Clearance Height Sign:
- Yellow sign with a height measurement: Indicates the maximum vehicle height allowed under a structure (e.g., a bridge or parking garage).
- Pay Parking Sign:
- Blue “P” symbol with wording like “PAY HERE” or a parking meter: Parking is allowed, but you must pay the specified fee at a nearby meter or payment station.
- Residential Permit Parking Sign:
- Indicates specific hours and days when parking is restricted to residents with permits: Non-resident vehicles may be subject to towing or ticketing during these times.
- School Zone Sign:
- Yellow and black sign with a school symbol: Parking restrictions may apply in this area during specific times, often when school is in session.
- Loading Zone for Persons with Disabilities:
- Blue square with a white “LOADING ZONE” wording and a wheelchair symbol: Reserved for vehicles transporting individuals with disabilities.
Remember that parking regulations may vary by location and can change over time, so always check for updated signs and read them carefully to avoid violations and fines. When in doubt, it’s best to find an alternative parking spot or consult local authorities for clarification.
