It’s a common question for drivers in New York City: what parking rules are still in effect when Alternate Side Parking (ASP) is suspended for Street Cleaning? Many assume a suspension means all parking regulations are lifted, but that’s not the case. While street cleaning itself is paused, other parking rules and regulations remain very much in force. Navigating these rules can be tricky, so here’s a clear guide to help you understand parking during street cleaning suspensions in NYC.
What Happens When Street Cleaning is Suspended?
When ASP is suspended, it means you don’t have to move your vehicle for street cleaning on the days and times listed on parking signs. This suspension is typically in place for holidays or emergency situations. However, it’s crucial to understand that ASP suspension applies from midnight the day before the suspension until midnight on the day of the suspension.
Despite the ASP suspension, you must still adhere to all other posted parking rules. NYC311 cannot provide specific parking advice, emphasizing the responsibility of drivers to understand and follow posted signs. Remember, NYC Traffic Rules require only one sign per block, so always check the entire block carefully before parking to ensure compliance with all regulations.
The 5-Minute Grace Period
Even in ASP zones, there’s a slight buffer. NYC law provides a 5-minute grace period beyond the time indicated on ASP signs. This means parking tickets cannot be legally issued within these first five minutes past the posted ASP time. Always be mindful of the exact time and utilize this grace period cautiously.
Parking Restrictions on Major Legal Holidays
Major legal holidays in NYC bring a partial relaxation of some parking rules. On these holidays, even if ASP is not suspended, you are permitted to park at signs that say “No Stopping,” “No Standing,” or “No Parking” only if those rules are not normally in effect seven days a week.
The major legal holidays recognized in NYC parking regulations are:
- New Year’s Day
- Memorial Day
- Independence Day
- Labor Day
- Thanksgiving Day
- Christmas Day
Be very careful to check the specific wording on the sign. If a “No Standing Anytime” sign is posted, for example, the holiday suspension does not apply, and parking there would still be illegal.
Double Parking: Always Illegal
It’s a common misconception that double parking is permissible during street cleaning, but this is never the case for passenger vehicles. Double parking, regardless of location, purpose, or duration, remains illegal at all times, even when street cleaning is in progress or suspended. Occupied or unoccupied, a double-parked vehicle creates safety hazards and traffic congestion. While it might be a frequent practice in some areas during street cleaning, it is still a violation, and you risk receiving a ticket.
Commercial vehicles have a limited exception. They are allowed to double park briefly for quick pickups, deliveries, or service calls, but only during posted hours. For complete details, consult the NYC Traffic Rules, specifically Chapter 4, Section 4-08, subdivision (f), paragraph (1).
For enforcement questions, you should contact your local police precinct. Precinct contact information can be found on the Police Precincts and PSAs page.
Open Streets and ASP
NYC’s Open Streets program, which temporarily closes streets to vehicle traffic to create pedestrian and cyclist-friendly spaces, interacts with ASP rules. When ASP is in effect on an Open Street, vehicles must leave the street for the duration of the ASP period. Vehicles can return after street cleaning is completed. Barriers on Open Streets should be positioned to allow vehicles to drive around them. When entering or exiting Open Streets, always prioritize pedestrian safety and drive at a maximum speed of 5 MPH.
Navigating All NYC Parking Rules
Understanding street cleaning suspensions is just one piece of the puzzle. To fully grasp all parking regulations in NYC, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with all types of parking signs and rules. Visit the Parking Signs and Rules page for comprehensive information on all parking regulations.
In conclusion, while a street cleaning suspension offers a temporary reprieve from moving your car for cleaning, it does not suspend all parking rules. Always read street signs carefully, understand the specific regulations, and park responsibly to avoid violations in New York City.
