Parking Rules in Santa Monica, CA (2026)
7 verified parking rules for Santa Monica, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
RV & Boat Parking
RV and boat storage in Santa Monica is restricted in residential zones. Oversized vehicles may not be stored on streets for extended periods. On-property storage may require screening. The 72-hour street parking rule applies.
Santa Monica RV & Oversized Vehicle Parking
Some RestrictionsDriveway Rules
Driveways in Santa Monica must comply with zoning code requirements. Vehicles must park on approved surfaces. Driveway widths and curb cuts are regulated by Public Works. Parking on unpaved front yards is not permitted.
Santa Monica Driveway Parking Rules
Some RestrictionsCommercial Vehicle Restrictions
Commercial-registered vehicles cannot obtain Overnight Oversize Parking permits in Santa Monica. Commercial vehicles must re-register as non-commercial through DMV for street parking eligibility.
Santa Monica Commercial Vehicle Parking Restrictions
Some RestrictionsStreet Parking Limits
Santa Monica has extensive preferential parking zones under SMMC Chapter 3.08 requiring resident permits. Metered parking and time-limited zones are enforced throughout the city.
Santa Monica Street Parking & Permit Zones
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Vehicle Code Section 22651 (Street Parking Enforcement and Vehicle Removal)
22651. A peace officer ... or a regularly employed and salaried employee who is engaged in directing traffic or enforcing parking laws and regulations of a city, county, or jurisdiction of a state agency in which a vehicle is located may remove a vehicle ... under the following circumstances: (a) If a vehicle is left unattended upon a bridge, viaduct, or causeway or in a tube or tunnel where th...
Overnight Parking
Santa Monica has overnight parking restrictions in many areas, particularly near the beach and commercial zones. Permit parking districts exist for residents. Street parking subject to 72-hour limit per CA Vehicle Code §22651.
Santa Monica Overnight Street Parking Rules
Some RestrictionsEV Charging
Santa Monica is a leader in EV infrastructure. CA AB 2097 eliminates parking minimums near major transit. CALGreen requires EV-ready wiring in new construction. The city offers streamlined permits for residential charger installation.
Santa Monica EV Charging Station Rules
Few RestrictionsCalifornia AB 1236 (2015) - Government Code Section 65850.7 (Electric Vehicle Charging Station Permits)
65850.7. (b) A city, county, or city and county shall administratively approve an application to install electric vehicle charging stations through the issuance of a building permit or similar nondiscretionary permit. Review of the application to install an electric vehicle charging station shall be limited to the building official's review of whether it meets all health and safety requirements...
Abandoned Vehicles
Under California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k) and Santa Monica Municipal Code Chapter 3.12, vehicles parked on public streets for 72 or more consecutive hours are considered abandoned and subject to citation and towing. Temporary No Parking signs require 24–72 hours advance posting.
Santa Monica Abandoned Vehicle Regulations
Some RestrictionsCalifornia Vehicle Code Section 22651 (Removal of Abandoned and Repeatedly Cited Vehicles)
22651. A peace officer ... may remove a vehicle ... under the following circumstances: (f) If a vehicle, except highway maintenance or construction equipment, is stopped, parked, or left standing for more than four hours upon the right-of-way of a freeway that has full control of access and no crossings at grade, and the driver, if present, cannot move the vehicle under its own power. (i) (1) I...
Looking for Los Angeles County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Santa Monica city rules.
Parking Rules in Los Angeles County →