Annapolis's Parking Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles parking rules a little differently. In Annapolis, Maryland, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Driveway Rules

Annapolis requires driveways to connect to the street through approved curb cuts. Historic District driveway alterations require Historic Preservation Commission review. Blocking sidewalks or obstructing sight lines is prohibited.

Key details: Permit: Required for new/modified driveways. Historic District: HPC review required. Curb Cuts: Engineering approval. Critical Area: Impervious surface limits.

Unpermitted driveway work: stop-work order and permit required. Historic District violation without HPC approval: $250 plus remediation order.

Street Parking Limits

Annapolis has metered parking (2-hour limit) throughout downtown and extensive residential permit parking zones near the Historic District, Naval Academy, and State House. Boat Show and special event restrictions activate seasonally.

Key details: Downtown Limit: 2-hour metered. Permit Zones: Historic District, USNA, State House. Abandoned Vehicle: 48-hour state rule. Events: Boat Show special restrictions.

Expired meter: $35. Overtime in permit zone: $50. Event restriction violation: $75. Multiple unpaid tickets: vehicle boot or tow.

Compared to other cities, Annapolis takes a harder line on street parking limits. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

RV & Boat Parking

Annapolis is a major boating hub. RV and boat trailer parking on city streets is limited. Residential storage of boats and trailers behind the front building line is generally permitted. Marina storage is widely available.

Key details: Street Limit: 48 hours (state abandonment rule). Residential: Behind front building line. Marinas: City Marina and Spa Creek options. HOAs: May impose additional rules.

Street storage beyond 48 hours: tow at owner's expense. Parking in front yard setback area: zoning citation.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Annapolis restricts commercial vehicle parking in residential zones overnight. Vehicles over 10,000 lbs GVW may not be parked in residential areas except for active loading/unloading. Historic District streets prohibit large trucks.

Key details: Weight Threshold: 10,000 lbs GVW. Overnight: Prohibited in residential zones. Exceptions: Active loading/unloading only. Historic District: Narrow streets, de facto limits.

Commercial vehicle overnight in residential zone: $75 citation. Repeat violation: tow at owner's expense.

The Bottom Line

Annapolis's parking rules rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Annapolis is broadly strict or permissive.

These rules come from Annapolis's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.