Columbus, OH Parking Rules: Dibs & Space Saving (2026)

Columbus does not have an ordinance that permits saving on-street parking spaces with objects (chairs, cones, etc.) after snow removal. While the practice informally occurs in some neighborhoods, it is not legally sanctioned and obstructing public right-of-way is prohibited. Columbus City Code Chapter 2157 establishes snow emergency procedures. When a snow emergency is declared by the Director of Public Service, parking is restricted on designated snow emergency routes to allow plowing. Vehicles not moved from snow emergency routes may be towed at the owner's expense. The city prioritizes snow removal on major thoroughfares and emergency routes first, then secondary streets. Residential side streets may be plowed last. Columbus operates a fleet of snowplows and salt trucks managed by the Department of Public Service. The city's Snow and Ice Control Plan outlines multi-tiered priority routes. The general 72-hour parking limit (Columbus City Code Chapter 2151) applies year-round, meaning no vehicle may remain in one spot for more than 72 consecutive hours. During winter, the city may temporarily suspend permit parking in areas needed for emergency plowing operations.