Winter Parking Ban Takes Effect in Chicago
Chicago’s annual winter overnight parking ban is in effect as of this Sunday, lasting through April 1. The ban prohibits parking on 107 miles of major city streets from 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m., regardless of weather conditions.
Safety and Efficiency Are Key
“The City’s Winter Overnight Parking Ban helps ensure public safety each winter by allowing emergency vehicles and public transportation to move freely and reducing hazardous conditions for motorists, pedestrians and other travelers,” said DSS Commissioner Cole Stallard. “Having this consistent rule for overnight parking allows snow removal crews to plan and execute their operations more effectively, and we ask residents and visitors to please follow the posted parking restriction signs so critical routes can be fully salted and plowed during winter weather events.”
Parking Restrictions Mark the Beginning of Winter
While drivers enjoyed leniency throughout the holiday weekend, receiving warnings instead of being towed for parking violations, the ban is now in full effect. Permanent signs clearly mark all affected routes. Additionally, the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation (DSS) places flyers on vehicles parked along streets subject to the ban, serving as a reminder before the restrictions begin.
Fines and Towing Enforced
Motorists who disregard the winter parking ban will face consequences. Violators will have their vehicles towed, incurring a minimum towing fee of $150, a $60 ticket, and a daily storage fee of $25.
Towing for parking violations will take place at two locations: Pound 2, situated at 10301 S. Doty Avenue, and Pound 6, located at 701 N. Sacramento Avenue.
For a comprehensive map showing affected streets, visit shovels.chicago.gov. Residents and visitors who are unsure if their vehicle has been towed can call 311 to inquire.
What streets are affected by Chicago’s winter overnight parking ban?
## Winter Parking Ban Takes Effect in Chicago
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. With snowflakes already in the forecast, Winter is definitely making its presence known in Chicago. And that means it’s time for one annual tradition Chicagoans know all too well: the overnight parking ban. Joining us today to discuss this is [Alex Reed Name], Director of Streets and Sanitation for the city. Welcome to the show.
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me.
**Host:** So, the ban officially kicked in this past Sunday. Can you remind our viewers what streets are affected and what exactly the rules are?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. From December 1st through April 1st, parking is prohibited on 107 miles of arterial streets during the overnight hours from 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. This includes [mention a few notable streets as examples]. And importantly, it’s in effect *regardless* of weather conditions. [[1](https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-winter-parking-ban-begins-with-flyers-warnings/3612852/)]
**Host:** So, even if we have a mild night with no snow on the ground, the ban is still in place?
**Alex Reed:** That’s right. The ban is designed to ensure clear roadways for emergency vehicles, snow plows, and to keep traffic flowing smoothly during the winter months.
**Host:** Why is it so important to have this ban in place even when there isn’t snow?
**Alex Reed:** As we know, even without snow, winter weather can bring freezing rain or black ice, which can make roads hazardous. Additionally, having clear streets allows our crews to be better prepared when a snowfall does occur. [[1](https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/chicago-winter-parking-ban-begins-with-flyers-warnings/3612852/)]
**Host:** Any advice for our viewers who might be affected by this ban?
**Alex Reed:** We encourage everyone to be mindful of the parking restrictions and plan accordingly. Know your neighborhood and the locations of parking alternatives. We also post details about the ban and designated alternative parking areas on our website and through social media.
**Host:** Great advice. Thank you for taking the time to join us today and helping us understand the importance of the winter parking ban.
**Alex Reed:** My pleasure.
