Norfolk, VA Parking Rules: Curb Color Rules (2026)

Section 25-282 of the Norfolk Code authorizes the classes of parking-control zones the city may paint onto its curbs and streets. A nonstop zone, where stopping is barred except to avoid a collision or follow a police officer's direction, may be designated by a painted curb or by a sign reading 'Stopping Prohibited,' or by both such painting and signs. A no-parking zone may be designated by painting on the roadway or by the erection of a sign, and a limited-parking zone uses the same painting-or-signage method to mark its time limit and applicable hours.

No-bus-parking zones follow the identical painting-or-sign rule, while valet-parking and courier-parking zones are set apart specifically by the painting of the curb and/or the erecting of a sign. Section 25-283 gives the city manager authority to designate any street, lane or alley for one of these zone types as in his judgment may be most compatible with the public interest, and requires that whenever any such zone is established, it be appropriately designated and marked by painting or signs, or both. Once a zone is marked, it is unlawful to stop, stand or park a vehicle contrary to the paint or sign, or beyond the time it allows.

The police chief may also designate safety zones under the same marking authority, with the city manager's approval, and noncompliance with a marked safety zone is likewise unlawful.