Shelby County, TN Parking Rules: Curb Color Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Curb markings
- Official devices only (Sec. 24-1)
- Obey parking signs
- Required (Sec. 24-183)
- Resident curb painting
- Not authorized to reserve parking
- Requests
- Via Public Works / Action Center
Summary
Curb colors and parking markings in unincorporated Shelby County are set by official traffic control devices under Chapter 24, not by resident painting; owners must obey official parking signs and cannot park within 12 inches of the curb or where markings prohibit it.
The owner or operator of any vehicle shall obey the instructions of any official parking sign applicable thereto placed in accordance with this chapter, and other traffic ordinances of the county, unless otherwise directed by an officer or deputy.
Full Breakdown
Shelby County Code Chapter 24 treats curb markings and painted zones as official traffic control devices placed by the county or state; Section 24-1 defines them as all signs, markings, signals, and devices placed by such authority. Section 24-183 requires the owner or operator of any vehicle to obey any official parking sign, and Section 24-184 prohibits parking more than 12 inches from the curb, within an intersection, or anywhere official signs prohibit parking. The county code contains no provision authorizing residents to paint curbs to reserve or restrict parking; only authorized markings are enforceable. Residents wanting a curb designation should request it through Shelby County Public Works or the Mayor's Action Center.
Violations & Fines
Ignoring an official painted or signed restriction is enforced under Sections 24-183 and 24-184, cited under Section 24-197. Unauthorized painting of a public curb cannot reserve parking and confers no enforceable right; only official traffic control devices carry legal effect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I paint the curb in front of my house to stop others parking?
Do I have to obey painted curb markings?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Shelby County
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