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

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

RV & Boat Parking

Montgomery restricts the parking of recreational vehicles, boats, and trailers on residential streets and front yards. These vehicles should generally be stored in driveways, side yards, or rear yards.

Key details: Street Parking: 72-hour limit applies. Front Yard: May violate property maintenance code. Storage: Side or rear yard preferred. Living In: RVs may not be used as dwellings.

Improperly stored RVs or boats may result in code enforcement notices and fines. Vehicles on the street beyond 72 hours may be towed.

Street Parking Limits

Montgomery regulates on-street parking through Chapter 26 of the city code. Time-limited parking zones exist in the downtown area, and vehicles may not be parked on streets for extended periods without moving.

Key details: Code Section: Chapter 26 Traffic. Downtown: Metered and 2-hour zones. 72-Hour Rule: Vehicles must move within 72 hours. Hydrants: No parking within 15 feet.

Parking violations result in tickets with fines. Vehicles parked over 72 hours or abandoned may be towed at the owner's expense.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Montgomery restricts the parking of large commercial vehicles in residential areas. Vehicles over a certain weight or size may not be parked on residential streets or in residential driveways overnight.

Key details: Heavy Vehicles: Prohibited on residential streets overnight. Small Commercial: Generally allowed for commuter vehicles. Obstruction: Must not block traffic or sight lines. Enforcement: Citations and potential towing.

Improperly parked commercial vehicles may receive citations and fines. Repeat violations may result in towing at the owner's expense.

Driveway Rules

Montgomery requires driveways to meet city engineering standards. Driveway aprons connecting to public streets require a permit from the city engineering department.

Key details: Permit: Required for new or modified driveways. Materials: Concrete or asphalt required. Sidewalks: Vehicles must not block pedestrian paths. Front Yard: Parking on unpaved areas restricted.

Unpermitted driveway construction may result in fines and required removal. Vehicles blocking sidewalks may be ticketed.

The Bottom Line

Montgomery'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 Montgomery is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects Montgomery'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.