How Taunton Handles Parking Rules: A Practical Guide

Taunton maintains 40 local ordinances across all categories, and 4 of those deal specifically with parking rules. Here is a breakdown of what the city actually requires, what is prohibited, and where Taunton falls on the strict-to-permissive spectrum compared to other cities.

RV & Boat Parking

Taunton regulates parking and vehicle storage through its zoning and traffic ordinances. Oversized vehicles must comply with general street parking rules. Specific restrictions may apply in residential districts under the zoning code Chapter 440.

Key details: Zoning: Ch. 440 district-specific rules apply. Street Parking: General traffic rules apply. Screening: Rear yard parking requires 4.5 ft screen. Enforcement: Taunton PD / Code Enforcement.

Code enforcement notice with correction period. Fines $50 to $500/day after notice. Towing for street violations.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Taunton regulates commercial vehicle parking through traffic and zoning ordinances. Commercial vehicles must comply with general parking rules and zoning district requirements. Parking areas adjacent to residential properties require screening buffers.

Key details: Zoning: Ch. 440 district-specific restrictions. Buffer Required: 5 ft with screening near residential. Street Parking: General traffic rules apply. Enforcement: Taunton PD / Zoning Enforcement.

Parking citations $25 to $200. Repeat violations: increased fines. Towing for oversized commercial vehicles.

Street Parking Limits

Taunton enforces street parking regulations under its traffic ordinances. Parking lot landscaping is required for lots of 10+ spaces under the zoning code. The city enforces general parking rules including hydrant clearance and corner setbacks.

Key details: Lot Landscaping: 200 sq ft per 10 spaces, 2 canopy trees. Hydrant Clearance: 10 feet required. Corner Clearance: 20 feet required. Enforcement: Taunton PD.

Overtime parking: $15 to $50. Winter ban/snow emergency: $50 to $100 + towing. Fire hydrant: $50 to $150.

Driveway Rules

Taunton's zoning ordinance Chapter 440 regulates off-street parking and driveways. Rear yard parking areas must be at least 5 feet from adjoining property lines with evergreen screening to 4.5 feet or a 6-foot wooden fence substitute. Building permits may be required for new driveway construction.

Key details: Rear Yard Setback: 5 feet from property line. Screening: Evergreen 4.5 ft or 6 ft wood fence. Permit: May be required for new driveways. Zoning: Ch. 440 district requirements.

Sidewalk blocking: parking citation $25 to $100. Unpaved parking: code enforcement notice. Unpermitted curb cut: $100 to $500.

The Bottom Line

Taunton'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 Taunton is broadly strict or permissive.

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