Buffalo, NY Parking Rules: Dibs & Space Saving (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Code § 413-8
- Dibs status
- No space-saving right
- Enforcement
- Dept. of Public Works
- Snow exception
- None
- What's barred
- Objects obstructing the street
Summary
Buffalo has no "dibs" ordinance blessing lawn chairs or cones in a shoveled spot. City Code § 413-8 bars placing any obstruction to the free use of a street or public place, so space-savers are unlawful street obstructions the Department of Public Works can remove.
No person shall place or cause to be placed and permit to remain on any street or public place in the City any obstruction to the free use of such street or public place by the public, except as expressly permitted by the ordinances of the City.
Full Breakdown
Buffalo is a snowbelt city, but it grants no property right to a curbside space you dug out. Section 413-8 flatly prohibits placing "any obstruction to the free use" of a street or public place, except as expressly permitted by ordinance. Chapter 413 makes the abutting owner or occupant responsible for removing encroachments and obstructions in front of their premises, and the Commissioner of Public Works clears them if the owner fails to. There is no permit for a space-saver and no snow exception. A chair, cone, or trash can left in the roadway to reserve a spot is an unlawful obstruction, not a protected custom.
Violations & Fines
The Commissioner of Public Works may remove any object obstructing the street, and abutting owners bear the duty and cost of clearing encroachments and obstructions in front of their premises under Chapter 413.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I save a shoveled parking spot in Buffalo with a chair?
Does Buffalo recognize a snow "dibs" custom?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buffalo
New York rules heatmap·Compare Buffalo to another location·View the New York parking rules overview
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