Dibs & Space Saving: Des Plaines vs Skokie

Can I save a parking space with a chair after I shovel in Des Plaines?

No. Des Plaines does not recognize dibs. Public streets remain public, and items used to block spaces may be removed by Public Works as obstructions.

Is dibs legal anywhere in Illinois?

Dibs is a Chicago neighborhood custom that the City of Chicago tolerates after major snowstorms but does not formally legalize. Most suburbs including Des Plaines prohibit the practice.

What if someone keeps taking my shoveled spot?

There is no legal claim to a public space. Use the city's overnight parking permit system or off-street parking. Retaliation against another driver is illegal and should be avoided.

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.