Skokie does not recognize or enforce 'dibs' — the Chicago winter tradition of saving a shoveled parking space with chairs or other items. Objects left on public streets to reserve parking violate Skokie's right-of-way obstruction rules and may be removed.
Unlike the City of Chicago, where 'dibs' is an informally tolerated winter tradition, the Village of Skokie does not sanction the practice of using lawn chairs, cones, milk crates, or other objects to reserve parking spaces after snowstorms. Items placed in the public right-of-way to save parking are considered obstructions under Skokie's street and property maintenance codes. Public Works and Police may remove such items without notice. Additionally, most overnight on-street parking requires a permit in Skokie, making the dibs concept largely inapplicable. Residents who shovel out their vehicles are encouraged to use driveways and permitted off-street spaces. Contact Public Works at (847) 933-8427 for snow-related questions.
Items placed in the public right-of-way may be removed and discarded by village crews. Repeated violations may result in property maintenance citations of $50 to $200. Altercations over dibs may result in criminal charges for property damage or disorderly conduct.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Cook County.
See how other cities in Cook County handle dibs & space saving.
See how Skokie's dibs & space saving rules stack up against other locations.
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