Lakewood's Parking Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles parking rules a little differently. In Lakewood, Colorado, 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.

RV & Boat Parking

Lakewood restricts RV and boat parking in residential areas. Recreational vehicles and boats must be stored on the owner's property, not on public streets for extended periods.

Key details: Street Storage: 72-hour limit applies. Residential: Store on private property. Surface: Paved or approved preferred. Dwelling Use: RVs not permitted as residences.

Improperly stored RVs and boats result in code enforcement notices and potential towing.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Lakewood restricts commercial vehicle parking in residential areas. Heavy commercial vehicles cannot be stored overnight in residential zones.

Key details: Restricted: Heavy commercial vehicles overnight. Allowed: Light commercial for personal use. Service Calls: Temporary parking permitted. Enforcement: Code Enforcement unit.

Commercial vehicle violations result in citations and potential towing.

Driveway Rules

Lakewood requires driveways to meet city standards. A permit is needed for new or modified driveways. Vehicles must not block sidewalks.

Key details: Permit: Required for new/modified driveways. Materials: Concrete or asphalt required. Sidewalks: Must not be blocked. Lawn Parking: Not permitted in front yard.

Unpermitted driveway work results in stop-work orders. Vehicles blocking sidewalks receive citations.

Street Parking Limits

Lakewood regulates street parking with time limits and restrictions. Vehicles may not be parked in the same location for more than 72 hours on public streets.

Key details: 72-Hour Rule: Cannot park same spot over 72 hours. Hydrant Clearance: Required by law. Sidewalks: Must not be blocked. Enforcement: Police Code Enforcement.

Parking violations result in citations. Vehicles exceeding the 72-hour limit may be towed.

The Bottom Line

Lakewood'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 Lakewood is broadly strict or permissive.

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