Parking Rules in New Brunswick, NJ: What Residents Actually Need to Know

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

Abandoned Vehicles

Abandoned vehicles in New Brunswick are regulated under N.J.S.A. 39:10A and the city's nuisance code. Vehicles on public streets without current registration may be cited and towed.

Key details: State Law: N.J.S.A. 39:10A. Local Code: New Brunswick Municipal Code. Process: Notice, then tow after statutory period. Reporting: New Brunswick Code Enforcement.

Notice period typically 72 hours to 10 days. Towing and storage at owner expense ($150 to $500+). Additional fines for repeat violations.

Street Parking Limits

The New Brunswick Parking Authority enforces street sweeping under the City Code's Streets and Sidewalks chapter. Sweeping runs April 2 through October 30 each year, with posted alternate-side-of-the-street signs on every swept block. Parking on the wrong side during the posted time results in a citation; persistent violators can be towed.

Key details: Enforcement: New Brunswick Parking Authority. Sweep Season: April 2 – October 30. Posting: Block-face signs (per side). Code Reference: RGO Chs. 7 & 21. Payment: NBPA, 106 Somerset St..

Parking on the wrong side during a posted sweep window is a city parking violation enforceable through New Brunswick Municipal Court. Fines escalate with repeat offenses, and vehicles may be towed under N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.6 (snow/emergency removal) and the city's tow ordinance. NBPA accepts payment online or in person at 106 Somerset Street.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Commercial vehicle parking in residential zones is restricted under New Brunswick's municipal code. State law (N.J.S.A. 39) prohibits oversized commercial vehicles in many areas.

Key details: State Law: N.J.S.A. Title 39. Local Code: New Brunswick Municipal Code. Residential Zones: Commercial vehicles generally restricted. Enforcement: New Brunswick Police / Parking Enforcement.

Parking citations $50 to $250. Repeat violations: increased fines. Towing for oversized commercial vehicles.

This is one of the stricter rules in New Brunswick's municipal code. If you are unsure whether your situation complies, it is worth checking with the city before proceeding.

RV & Boat Parking

RV and boat storage on residential streets is extremely limited in New Brunswick's dense urban environment. Local zoning and parking ordinances generally prohibit oversized vehicles on residential streets.

Key details: Street Parking: Generally prohibited or severely restricted. Code: New Brunswick Municipal Code Title 17. Urban Constraints: Dense city — limited space. Contact: New Brunswick Parking Authority.

Code enforcement notice with correction period. Fines $100 to $500/day after notice. Towing for street violations.

Compared to other cities, New Brunswick takes a harder line on rv & boat parking. The enforcement and penalty structure reflects that.

The Bottom Line

New Brunswick is tougher than many cities when it comes to parking rules. Out of the 4 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in New Brunswick, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that New Brunswick can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.