Bonita Springs, FL Parking Rules: Driveway Rules (2026)

The Bonita Springs Residential Parking Ordinance (§ 34-168) exists, in the words of § 34-169, to protect the comfort, health, repose, safety and general welfare of residents by establishing maximum parking areas in residential neighborhoods. It applies to city and privately maintained streets alike, and its nuisance standards apply regardless of the date the parking area or building was constructed.

For properties used residentially and permitted after October 1, 2005, § 34-170(a) limits parking to the driveway parking area leading from the permitted driveway connection to a garage or carport. Under § 34-170(b) the maximum width is 18 feet where the driveway enters the street right-of-way, and the parking area is limited to no more than 30 percent of the front yard, whichever is greater. At least 70 percent of the front yard is meant to remain unpaved open greenspace, and that greenspace cannot be used for parking any vehicles. Where the driveway meets the street pavement it can flare an additional three feet on each side, and that flare does not count in the calculation. Circular driveways under § 34-170(c) can take up to 40 percent of the front yard, provided the circle extends to the right-of-way.

Unpaved parking areas must be graveled or covered with erosion preventing material and edged with plants, landscape ties, pressure treated wood, brick or concrete. A minimum four feet width of hard surface such as concrete, asphalt or paver bricks is required as a driveway apron along paved city streets.

Driveways built before October 1, 2005 are a valid nonconforming use and cannot be extended or enlarged. New single-family or duplex building permit applications must include a residential driveway permit application with the location, dimensions and calculations. The city manager can grant an exemption under § 34-171 when the area is clearly defined, safe, sanitary and neat, does not contribute to soil erosion and the rules would impose an inordinate burden, and an appeal to city council must be filed in writing within 15 days.