Alternate Side Parking (ASP) regulations are a common aspect of street parking in New York City. Understanding these rules is crucial for vehicle owners to avoid parking tickets and navigate city streets effectively. While NYC311 cannot provide specific parking advice for every situation, this guide will clarify the key aspects of Alternate Street Side Parking, especially when ASP is suspended.
Deciphering NYC Parking Signs and Rules
Navigating parking in NYC requires careful attention to posted signs. The NYC Department of Transportation (DOT) mandates that at least one parking sign be present per block. It is the driver’s responsibility to thoroughly inspect the entire block and meticulously read all parking signs before parking their vehicle. These signs dictate time limits and parking legality within a specific area. Always prioritize reading and understanding these signs as they are the ultimate authority on parking regulations.
Alternate Side Parking Suspension Timing
When Alternate Side Parking is suspended, this suspension is effective from midnight on the day preceding the suspension until midnight on the day of the suspension. This means if ASP is suspended on a Tuesday, the suspension period lasts from Monday midnight to Tuesday midnight.
The 5-Minute Grace Period for ASP Zones
NYC law provides a 5-minute grace period specifically for Alternate Side Parking zones. This regulation allows drivers an extra 5 minutes beyond the time indicated on the ASP sign. During this grace period, parking enforcement officers are prohibited from issuing parking tickets. This grace period offers a small buffer for drivers maneuvering in and out of parking spaces within ASP zones.
Holiday Parking Rules and “No Stopping, No Standing, No Parking” Zones
Even when ASP is suspended, it’s important to understand parking rules on major legal holidays, particularly concerning “No Stopping, No Standing, or No Parking” zones. On major legal holidays, you are permitted to park at signs indicating “No Stopping,” “No Standing,” or “No Parking” only if these restrictions are not normally in effect seven days a week. For example, if a sign reads “No Standing Anytime,” this restriction remains in effect even on major holidays. However, if the “No Standing” rule is not in effect 7 days a week (perhaps only weekdays), then it is suspended on major legal holidays.
The recognized major legal holidays in NYC are:
- New Year’s Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
Double Parking: A Persistent Illegality
It is critical to remember that double parking of passenger vehicles is illegal at all times in NYC. This prohibition remains in effect even during street cleaning periods, regardless of the location, purpose, or duration of the double parking. Double parked vehicles, whether occupied or unoccupied, pose safety hazards and contribute to traffic congestion. While double parking might be a common practice on some streets during street cleaning, it is still a violation, and you are liable to receive a parking ticket.
Commercial vehicles are granted a limited exception; they may double park briefly for quick pickups, deliveries, or service calls, but only during posted hours. For detailed regulations, refer to the NYC Traffic Rules, Chapter 4, Section 4-08, subdivision (f), paragraph (1).
Alternate Side Parking on Open Streets
When Alternate Side Parking coincides with designated Open Streets, vehicles are expected to vacate the street during ASP hours and may return once ASP regulations are no longer in effect. If barriers are used for Open Streets, they should be positioned to allow vehicles to navigate around them. When driving onto or off of Open Streets, exercise caution for pedestrians and maintain a speed of 5 MPH.
Exploring Further Parking Regulations
For a comprehensive understanding of all parking rules and regulations in New York City, it is recommended to visit the Parking Signs and Rules page. For enforcement-related questions, contact your local police precinct. Precinct contact information can be found on the Police Precincts and PSAs page.
By understanding and adhering to these alternate street side parking rules, you can confidently navigate parking in NYC and avoid unnecessary fines and inconveniences.
