Waukegan's Parking Rules: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles parking rules a little differently. In Waukegan, Illinois, 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.

Street Parking Limits

Waukegan enforces an alternate parking ordinance year-round: odd side on odd days, even side on even days, 12:01 AM to 11:59 AM. No all-night parking on streets between 2:00 AM and 5:00 AM per Section 21-119. Violations are $25.

Key details: Overnight Ban: No parking 2 AM-5 AM (Section 21-119). Alternate Parking: Odd side odd days, even side even days. Enforcement: 12:01 AM-11:59 AM daily. Fine: $25. Updated: October 2020 City Council amendment.

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

Driveway Rules

Driveway construction and modifications in Waukegan require permits from the Building & Code Department. Curb cut permits required for new driveways per Section 18-184.

Key details: Code: Waukegan MC Section 18-184. Permit: Required for new/modified driveways. Curb Cuts: Require specific approval. Contact: Building & Code: 847-625-6878.

Blocking sidewalks or fire hydrants carries immediate fines of $50–$150. Parking on unpaved surfaces in violation of zoning may result in code enforcement notices with 30-day compliance windows.

RV & Boat Parking

RVs are subject to Waukegan's overnight street parking ban (2-5 AM) and alternate parking ordinance. RV storage on private property governed by the Unified Development Ordinance zoning rules.

Key details: Street Parking: Banned 2-5 AM; alternate parking enforced. Private Storage: Governed by UDO zoning rules. UDO: Adopted July 1, 2024. Contact: Planning & Zoning: 847-625-6878.

Violations result in a notice to comply with a 14-day deadline. Failure to comply carries fines of $50–$200 per day. Abandoned or derelict vehicles may be towed at the owner's expense.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Waukegan actively enforces its rv & boat parking requirements.

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Commercial vehicle parking on Waukegan residential streets is restricted. The alternate parking ordinance and overnight ban apply to all vehicles including commercial trucks.

Key details: Overnight: Banned 2-5 AM like all vehicles. Alternate Parking: Odd/even day enforcement applies. Residential Zones: Additional UDO restrictions may apply. Enforcement: Waukegan PD: 847-599-2608.

Violations result in warnings followed by fines of $100–$300 per occurrence. Vehicles parked in violation for extended periods may be subject to towing at the owner's expense.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Waukegan actively enforces its commercial vehicle restrictions requirements.

The Bottom Line

Waukegan is tougher than many cities when it comes to parking rules. Out of the 4 rules covered here, 3 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Waukegan, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

All of the above reflects Waukegan'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.