General Rules

Parking on public streets and alleys is regulated by the San Diego Municipal Code and the California Vehicle Code.

To report illegal parking in your neighborhood, call 619-531-2000 or report the parking violation online.

The following general provisions of law apply whether or not there are signs or curb markings present.

• No vehicle may be parked continuously at one location on any public roadway for more than 72 hours.
• Parking is prohibited in alleys, except for the purpose of actively unloading goods or passengers, unless the alley is specifically designated as an alley parking zone.
• Parking heavy-duty commercial vehicles in residential areas is prohibited unless the vehicle is loading or unloading goods or has a service call in the immediate vicinity.
• Parking unattached semi-trailers or auxiliary dollies on any street is prohibited except while loading/unloading (camping or utility trailers not included).
• Parking is prohibited:
  • in an intersection or a crosswalk;
  • within 15 feet of a fire station driveway or fire hydrant;
  • within 20 feet of a marked or unmarked crosswalk;
  • on a sidewalk or parkway;
  • on the roadway side of a parked vehicle (double parking);
  • in a bus stop;
  • in a tunnel;
  • upon a bridge (unless otherwise posted);
  • in such a manner that obstructs the free use of the street;
  • in a center median strip unless signs are posted permitting parking on the median and
  • in front of a public or private driveway (even your own driveway).
• Wheel cramping is required on all grades over 3% (hills), with or without the presence of signs. Block your wheels diagonally against the curb by turning your wheels into the curb when facing downhill and out to the street when facing uphill.
• Be aware of signage when you park. Read all signs. They may include time frame restrictions and other parking guidelines.
• Street sweeping signs are posted in areas of the City where there is a routine street sweeping schedule. Parking is prohibited on the designated days for the entire time posted on the sign.

The San Diego Police Department's Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Unit is responsible for removing wrecked, dismantled and inoperative vehicles from public and private property.

To report an abandoned vehicle, contact the Abandoned Vehicle Abatement Unit at 858-495-7856 or report the abandoned vehicle online.

For questions or concerns, see the Frequently Asked Questions, call 866-470-1308 (toll-free).