Parking Rules in Bessemer, AL: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Bessemer or are thinking about moving there, parking rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Bessemer has 4 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of parking rules, and some of them might surprise you.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Bessemer's zoning ordinance restricts commercial vehicle use in residential zones. Heavy commercial vehicles may not be parked overnight in residential areas. Specific restrictions depend on the zoning district.

Key details: Residential Zones: Heavy commercial vehicles restricted. Zoning Code: Appendix B. Enforcement: Code Enforcement / Police. Contact: Planning & Zoning (205) 424-4060.

Zoning violation: $50 to $250. Repeat: daily fines. Towing possible for street violations.

RV & Boat Parking

Bessemer's zoning ordinance (Appendix B) regulates vehicle storage in residential districts. RV and recreational vehicle parking is subject to zoning district use restrictions and accessory use regulations.

Key details: Regulation: Appendix B Zoning Ordinance. Residential Storage: Per zoning district rules. Contact: Planning & Zoning (205) 424-4060. Address: 1700 3rd Ave N, Bessemer 35020.

Zoning violation: $50 to $250 per day. Unregistered vehicle: towing possible. HOA fines separate.

Street Parking Limits

Bessemer regulates parking through its municipal code and Alabama state law (Ala. Code §32-5A-136/137). Standard prohibitions include no parking within 20 ft of fire station driveways and within intersections.

Key details: State Law: Ala. Code §32-5A-136/137. Fire Station Clearance: 20 ft from driveways. Enforcement: Bessemer Police Department. Zoning Code: Appendix B parking provisions.

Parking ticket: $25 to $75. Fire hydrant: $100+. Towing fees: $150 to $300 plus storage.

Driveway Rules

Bessemer requires building permits for driveway construction. Vehicles must not obstruct sidewalks or public rights-of-way. Driveway standards are set by the zoning ordinance and building code requirements.

Key details: Permit: Building permit required. Sidewalk Obstruction: Prohibited. Building Code: 2015 IBC suite. Contact: Building Dept., 1700 3rd Ave N.

Blocking sidewalk: $50 to $150 ticket. Lawn parking: $100 to $250 code violation. Unpermitted driveway: correction notice.

The Bottom Line

Bessemer'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 Bessemer is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Bessemer's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.