Parking Rules in Des Moines, IA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

If you live in Des Moines or are thinking about moving there, parking rules are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. Des Moines has 6 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of parking rules, and some of them might surprise you.

EV Charging

Des Moines allows Level 1, 2, and 3 electric vehicle charging stations as a permitted use in every zoning district. No local ordinance mandates EV-ready or EV-capable spaces in private parking lots, leaving those decisions to property owners.

Key details: EV stations allowed in: All zoning districts. Right-of-way installation: Not permitted. Mandatory EV-space ratio: None adopted. Governing code: Chapter 134 Zoning Ord..

No specific EV parking violation fines; general electrical-permit violations under Chapter 26 may result in stop-work orders and fees.

Des Moines is more permissive than most cities when it comes to ev charging. That said, there are still limits.

Overnight Parking

Des Moines prohibits parking any vehicle on a public street in one spot for more than 24 hours. Sign-posted streets may carry overnight bans (e.g., 10 p.m.–7 a.m.). During active snow removal, parking on designated snow routes is prohibited citywide, and odd/even rules apply in four neighborhoods.

Key details: 24-hour limit: No single spot over 24 hours. Sign-posted overnight ban: 10 PM–7 AM where posted. Snow route fine: $35 plus possible tow. Resident permit hours: 6 PM–7 AM daily. Odd/even snow zones: 4 neighborhoods, 7 AM–7 PM.

Fines range from $15 (24-hour limit) to $30 (sign-posted overnight ban) to $35 (snow route violation); vehicles may be towed; unpaid tickets accrue $5 surcharge after 30 days.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Des Moines restricts parking of commercial vehicles in residential areas. Heavy commercial vehicles, semi-trucks, and trailers generally may not be parked or stored in residential zones.

Key details: Heavy Trucks: Prohibited in residential. Light Commercial: Generally permitted. Deliveries: Temporary parking OK. Semi-Trucks: Not in residential.

Zoning violation: municipal infraction. Fines up to $625. Vehicles may be required to be removed within a specified timeframe.

Driveway Rules

Des Moines requires driveways to meet city standards for width, surface material, and access. Vehicles must be parked on approved hard surfaces, not on lawns. Driveway approaches require permits.

Key details: Surface: Hard surface required. Permit: Required for new/modified driveways. Lawn Parking: Prohibited. Department: Engineering.

Zoning or property maintenance violations: municipal infraction with fines. Unpermitted driveway work may require removal and reconstruction.

Street Parking Limits

Des Moines enforces citywide street parking regulations including 48-hour limits on residential streets, snow emergency alternate-side parking, and metered downtown parking. Vehicles must not obstruct traffic or block driveways.

Key details: Time Limit: 48 hours on residential. Snow Emergency: Alternate-side parking. Fire Hydrant: 15 ft clearance. Towing: Snow emergency violators.

Parking tickets range from $15 to $50. Snow emergency violations: $50 fine plus towing costs. Towed vehicles stored at city impound lot.

RV & Boat Parking

Des Moines regulates the parking and storage of recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers on residential properties. Vehicles must generally be stored in rear yards or driveways, not on the street long-term.

Key details: Street Limit: 48-hour max. Storage: Rear/side yard or driveway. Living In: Not permitted. Registration: Must be current.

Zoning violations: municipal infraction. Abandoned or unregistered vehicles may be towed. Standard parking fines apply for street violations.

The Bottom Line

Des Moines'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 Des Moines is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Des Moines's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.