South Bend, IN Parking Rules: Driveway Rules (2026)

Chapter 14, Article 8 of the South Bend Code of Ordinances regulates residential yard parking. Section 14-42(a) makes it unlawful to park a motor vehicle in a front, side or rear yard of a lot zoned for residential use, with the sole exception of a hard-surfaced driveway or an approved parking space; Section 14-42(b) declares any violation a public nuisance. Section 14-41 defines 'motor vehicle' broadly to include automobiles, trucks, recreational vehicles, antique vehicles, motorcycles, buses and low-speed vehicles, so the ban reaches RVs parked on the grass just like any other vehicle.

Owners can escape the ban only with a conditional use lawn parking permit issued under Sections 14-54 through 14-56, capped at 12 calendar days per property per year and requiring proof of residency, a $25 application fee (plus $5 for each additional day) and a per-space fee of $3, rising to a flat $50 for ten or more vehicles. Section 14-43 separately bars parking any part of a vehicle over a sidewalk or curb. Section 14-44 sets the penalty schedule: a $100 fine for a first violation, $250 for a second, $350 for a third, and City Attorney authority to pursue fines up to $2,500 against chronic violators; unpaid fines double if not postmarked to the Ordinance Violations Bureau within 14 days.