Dibs & Space Saving: Arlington Heights vs Skokie
How do dibs & space saving rules compare between Arlington Heights, IL and Skokie, IL?
Arlington Heights has fewer restrictions than Skokie.
Arlington Heights, IL
Cook County
Arlington Heights does not officially sanction the practice of saving shoveled-out parking spots with chairs or other objects. The village discourages space saving and may remove items placed in the public right-of-way.
View full Arlington Heights rules →Skokie, IL
Cook County
Skokie does not recognize or enforce 'dibs' — the Chicago winter tradition of saving a shoveled parking space with chairs or other items. Objects left on public streets to reserve parking violate Skokie's right-of-way obstruction rules and may be removed.
View full Skokie rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington Heights | Skokie |
|---|---|---|
| Dibs Policy | Not sanctioned | - |
| Space Savers | May be removed by village | - |
| Winter Parking | Overnight ban reduces conflicts | - |
| Contact | Police non-emergency (847) 368-5300 | Public Works (847) 933-8427 |
| Dibs Recognized | - | No |
| Objects in Street | - | Obstruction violation |
| Chicago Tradition | - | Not applicable in Skokie |
| Removal | - | Village may dispose of items |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington Heights FAQ
Can I save my shoveled parking spot with a chair in Arlington Heights?
Arlington Heights does not officially allow space saving. Items placed in the street to reserve spots may be removed by village crews.
Does Arlington Heights have a dibs system like Chicago?
No. The village does not have a formal dibs program and discourages the practice of saving shoveled parking spaces with objects.
What if someone takes my shoveled spot?
Public street parking is first-come, first-served. Contact the Police Department non-emergency line at (847) 368-5300 if a dispute arises.
Skokie FAQ
Can I use dibs to save my parking spot in Skokie?
No. Skokie does not recognize the Chicago dibs tradition. Objects placed on public streets to reserve parking are considered obstructions and may be removed by village crews.
What if someone puts chairs in front of my house to save a spot?
You can report it to Skokie Public Works or Police. The village may remove the items as right-of-way obstructions.
Why doesn't Skokie allow dibs like Chicago?
Skokie's overnight parking rules require permits for most on-street parking, and the village enforces right-of-way obstruction rules more strictly than the City of Chicago.
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