Flint, MI Parking Rules: Loading Zones (2026)

Section 28-79 splits loading zone use into two classes. Under subsection (a), a vehicle that is not commercially licensed can stop, stand or park in the zone only for the expeditious loading or unloading of passengers, and only if it does not interfere with a commercial vehicle entering the zone. Under subsection (b), a commercially licensed vehicle can stop there only for the expeditious loading or unloading of merchandise, and the stop cannot exceed thirty (30) minutes.

Who counts as commercial matters. Chapter 28 defines a commercial vehicle as all motor vehicles used for the transportation of passengers for hire and those constructed or used for transportation of goods, wares or merchandise. The chapter defines a loading zone as that portion of any street reserved specifically for loading and unloading any vehicle licensed as a commercial vehicle, identified by appropriate signs or markings, or both.

Zones are created by application, not by the business itself. Under § 28-78, any person can apply in writing to the Traffic Engineer on forms available from the Traffic Engineering Division. The Traffic Engineer can grant, refuse or modify the application and, once a zone is granted, can further limit or withdraw the permit at his discretion. The applicant pays the City Treasurer a service fee for installing two designatory signs. That fee is not refundable after installation, even if the permit is later withdrawn. The amount is set by City Council resolution, kept on file by the City Clerk and contained in Appendix A of the City Code. A loading zone cannot be established in an existing prohibited zone unless it is confined to a recessed area.

Section 28-110 supplies the hours rule. The Traffic Engineering Division can establish and maintain loading zones, and omit parking devices for them, when safety and traffic conditions call for it and the conduct of business and use of property by the abutting property owner or lessees require it. No vehicle can remain in a loading zone longer than is necessary to load or unload passengers or property. Where parking devices were installed and loading zone signs were added, those spaces can be used for loading and unloading property during the hours specified on the signs, so the posted sign controls the hours at any given curb. The loading zone provisions are in addition to, and do not replace, other regulations adopted under the Code.

Inside the Downtown Development Authority district, § 28-110.1(a) gives the DDA power to enforce and administer the entire parking system, including every violation of the City of Flint parking ordinances within that district.