# Common Parking Rules Drivers Often Get Wrong

> Drivers miss basic parking rules that cost hundreds in fines and towing.
- Title: Common Parking Rules Drivers Often Get Wrong · Family Handyman
- Summary: Drivers miss basic parking rules that cost hundreds in fines and towing. Drivers often park too close to fire hydrants, block driveways, or ignore time…
- Keywords: parking rules, fire hydrant distance, towing fees, parking meters, street sweeping, city parking, parking permits, curb colors, parking fines, municipal parking, Common, Parking
- Source: Family Handyman — https://familyhandyman.com/article/basic-parking-rules
- Author: Chris Deziel
- Published: 2026-10-05T20:42:50+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: parking rules, fire hydrant distance, towing fees, parking meters, street sweeping, city parking, parking permits, curb colors, parking fines, municipal parking
## Where You Can Park
You can park in municipal lots or garages with space and payment, and on streets if other cars are present.
## Where You Can’t Park
You cannot park in front of fire hydrants, red/yellow/white curbs, green curbs beyond sign limits, blue handicap spaces, intersections, driveways, or double park.
## Parking Meter Rules
Read meter labels before feeding to avoid fines; parking is free after 6 or 8 PM in most cities.
## Fire Hydrant Distance
Standard rule is 15 feet from fire hydrants, but Washington, D.C. requires 10 feet and Salt Lake City allows 5 feet.
## Street Sweeping Rules
Alternate-side parking is required on specific days to allow street sweepers to clean the curb.
## Parking Fines and Towing
Towing fees range from $100 to $300, storage fees $15-$50 per day, and administrative fees $30-$100.
## How to Check Rules
Check municipal government pages, parking apps, or GIS maps for city-specific parking rules.
## Parking Time Limits
Parking is legal on streets without painted curb colors or signs, but must stay 18 inches from curb and avoid blocking driveways.
## City Parking Changes
Cities like San Francisco, San Jose, Austin, and Hartford reduce parking to make room for buildings and increase meter rates.
## Double Parking Violations
Double parking is illegal in many cities, with New York City fines starting at $115 for first offense.
## Key takeaway

Drivers often park too close to fire hydrants, block driveways, or ignore time limits leading to fines up to $300 and towing fees.