Chico, CA Parking Rules: Driveway Rules (2026)

California Vehicle Code Section 22500(e) makes it unlawful to stop, park, or leave a vehicle in front of a public or private driveway, except for the residents of property served by that driveway; CVC 22500(f) prohibits parking on a sidewalk. These provisions are enforced citywide in Chico without need for a local duplicate ordinance. On the design side, Chico Municipal Code Section 19.70.060 (Design and development standards for off-street parking) requires all off-street parking areas, driveways, and maneuvering aisles to be paved with all-weather surfacing and provided with storm drainage approved by the Public Works Director - meaning you cannot expand a driveway onto unpaved yard or parkway turf without a permit and proper surfacing. CMC Section 19.70.040 sets minimum required parking spaces by use; new single-family homes typically must provide two off-street spaces in a garage, carport, or paved drive. Encroachment onto the public right-of-way (including extending a driveway curb cut) requires an encroachment permit from Public Works. Sidewalk maintenance abutting a driveway is the adjacent property owner's duty (CMC Title 14, Ch. 14.20).