NYC Parking: Key Takeaways
In NYC, the parking rules change from one block to the next, so if you’re not careful, moving day could turn into a parking nightmare
- Double parking is always illegal and can lead to hefty fines
- Vehicles must stay 15 feet from fire hydrants and away from bus stops or bike lanes
- “No Standing” zones only allow quick passenger pick-ups or drop-offs
- Street cleaning happens once or twice weekly, and cars left on the curb will be towed during the posted hours
- Alternate-side parking rules require vehicles to move at set times, which can interrupt a move
- Finding legal parking, checking building rules, and hiring professional movers helps prevent costly fines and delays on your moving day
Picture this: You’re moving into a walk-up in the West Village, but because there’s no curb space, you decide to double-park your rental truck. You might be thinking, “What’s 30 minutes?”
Never mind that you’re back in under 20 minutes. When you return, you find you’ve got a ticket for $115.
How to avoid this unpleasant scenario?
We’ll break down:
- The most important NYC parking rules
- What to know about street cleaning and alternate-side parking
- Tips to avoid tickets, delays, and wasted time on moving day
Don’t risk parking tickets while moving in NYC. Call Imperial Movers
Understanding NYC Parking Rules When Moving
NYC parking rules are like a 2,000-piece puzzle, with each piece meant for a different block or street. Knowing them can save you time and money, especially when moving on a narrow residential street in Midtown or Brooklyn Heights.
Avoid Double Parking
Even with your hazards flashing, double parking, or stopping your vehicle next to another parked car, can land you a fine.
The reason is simple: This can block lanes that are used by emergency vehicles, buses, and deliveries.
Don’t Park Near Hydrants, Bus Stops, or Bike Lanes
NYC has strict distance rules, and breaking them during a move can lead to fines or towing.
Here’s what you need to know:
- Stay at least 15 feet away from fire hydrants.
- Don’t park in bus-stop zones, no matter how brief your stop will be.
- Don’t block bike lanes, as this is treated like obstructing travel lanes.
Respect No Standing Signs
A “No Standing” sign means you cannot park, stop, or stand in that zone. This may apply at all times or only during specific hours – for example, between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. from Monday to Friday.
Common near schools, commercial areas, and government buildings, “No Standing” signs allow you only to stop briefly to pick up or drop off a passenger. Loading or unloading packages is not permitted.
Use Loading Zones Only for Commercial Vehicles
Using a rental van or U-Haul with non-commercial plates when moving in NYC?
A loading zone may seem an attractive place to stop and unload your furniture, refrigerator, or piano, as loading zones provide plenty of curb space.
But there’s a catch: They can be used only by commercial vehicles with proper license plates, and this can only happen during specific hours.
Failure to follow this rule can lead to a fine. You can also be forced to move the truck while your friends are still carrying boxes.
Street Cleaning in NYC: What You Need To Know
If your moving day lines up with street cleaning, you may spend more time circling the block than loading the truck.
Occurring once or twice a week on most NYC streets between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m., street cleaning requires that all cars are moved before scheduled cleaning starts.
Non-compliance can result in a fine.
Alternate-Side Parking Rules in NYC
Remember that time you had to move your car because a street sweeper was coming? That’s exactly what alternate side parking is.
Most residential streets have signs that specify which side of the street must be cleared, and on which days.
You may see “No Parking Monday 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.” This means all cars must vacate that side of the street during that time.
How can this affect your move?
If you’re moving in or out during ASP hours:
- You may not be able to legally park near your building.
- You’ll need to pause loading or unloading to move the truck.
- You may get multiple tickets in a single move.
Dodge fines and keep your move on schedule by starting after the sweepers are done or hiring professional movers who know when and where to park. Read more useful tips in the section below.
ASP rules are one of the biggest moving-day challenges for New Yorkers
How To Avoid Parking Tickets and Delays During Your Move
A single ticket can mess up your whole move, especially if you’ve rented a truck by the hour. A little planning can keep your day on track.
To avoid fines:
- Scope out the block ahead of time.
- Jot down the no-go zones. Pro tip: Take a photo so you can refer to it later.
- Reserve building elevators and check COI requirements: Delays can extend parking time and increase the risk of tickets.
- Have a backup parking spot or side street available in case the main location is full or blocked.
- Hire professional movers who know NYC parking rules and will spare you the headache.
Parking is the hardest part of moving in NYC. This can change if you have experts on your side
Need To Move in NYC? Call Imperial Movers
Want to ensure a stress-free moving experience without thinking of permits, fines, and delays? Imperial Movers will save you the hassle.
Whether you’re moving to Brooklyn, The Bronx, or Manhattan, we know each borough and each street’s unique challenges.
Working with our crew will help you avoid parking fines because we’ll plan your move around street-cleaning schedules and alternate-side rules, arrive early to secure legal curb space, and use commercial plates that provide access to loading zones.
A trusted partner for residential and commercial moves, Imperial is fully licensed and insured. Work with us and benefit from transparent pricing and immaculate service.
Stop circling the block and losing precious time. Let Imperial Movers handle the logistics
NYC Parking Permits & Street Cleaning: FAQs
Do I need a parking permit to move in NYC?
For most residential moves, you don’t need a special moving permit. However, if you’re using a large truck or need to reserve space in a congested area, you may have to apply for a temporary no parking permit at your local NYPD precinct. Professional movers like Imperial Movers use licensed commercial vehicles, which can use loading zones without extra permits.
Can I park a U-Haul on the street?
You can park a U-Haul, but if you don’t have commercial plates, you’ll be locked out of most loading zones.
What can I do if there’s no parking near my building?
The best solution in dense areas without nearby parking is to:
- Schedule your move outside of peak hours (before 8 a.m. or mid-afternoon).
- Coordinate with building management for driveway or loading dock use.
- Hire pros like Imperial Movers who’ll handle logistics quickly and efficiently.
Where can I find my street-cleaning schedule?
Check the NYC DOT website and the NYC311 app. They’ll show real-time updates on cleaning schedules and parking suspensions in your neighborhood.
What happens if my moving truck is parked illegally during street cleaning?
If your truck is on the wrong side during alternate-side parking hours or active street cleaning, you are likely to get a fine or your vehicle can be towed away. To avoid this, always check the posted street signs and the NYC311 calendar for suspensions before move day.
Do I need to pause my move if street cleaning starts?
Unfortunately, yes. When alternate-side cleaning kicks in, you must move your truck, whether you’re just starting or mid-move.
What if my building has no driveway or loading dock?
This is common in NYC, but you don’t need to think about it if you’re working with professional movers. They’ll park in the closest legal space and work quickly to minimize time at the curb. Moving pros like Imperial’s team know the area, which helps avoid tickets and complaints from neighbors.
What time of day is best to move in NYC to avoid parking problems?
Early mornings before 8 a.m. and mid-afternoons are usually best: Traffic is lighter and alternate-side parking restrictions may have already ended. Avoid rush hour and posted street-cleaning times.
Can my friends help me move if I can’t park close to my apartment?
Yes, but it may make your move harder, as you’ll need to carry the boxes a long distance. Consider hiring Imperial Movers, who can park legally in commercial zones.
Avoid surprise fines and delays. Call Imperial Movers
