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Bellingham, WA Parking Rules: Overnight Parking (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Time limit (unsigned space)
72 consecutive hours
Governing section
BMC 11.33.060(A)(25)
New sign enforceable after
24 hours posted
Standard fine
$60 civil infraction

Summary

Bellingham bars leaving any vehicle in one city street spot for more than 72 consecutive hours unless a posted sign sets a shorter limit, covering overnight and long-term street parking citywide.

In one place upon the city street for a consecutive period in excess of the maximum time limit designated on an official posted sign controlling such parking space; or, for parking spaces not controlled by an official posted sign, for a consecutive period of time in excess of 72 hours;

26. On that portion of any street lawfully set aside for the movement of traffic in the direction opposite to that which the parked vehicle faces;

27. Between safety zone and the adjacent curb or within 30 feet of points on the curb immediately opposite the ends of a safety zone, unless official signs or markings indicate a different no-parking area opposite the ends of a safety zone;

28. Within 20 feet of the driveway entrance to any fire station and on the side of a street opposite the entrance to any fire station within 75 feet of said entrance when properly signposted;

29. Upon any city street, if the vehicle has been left in the care of the owner or operator of any parking lot or garage, or their agent;

30. At any place or time where official signs or markings prohibit stopping, standing, or parking;

31. For purposes of unloading the vehicle in such a manner as to cause damage to the surface of the street;

32. For purposes of loading or transporting any materials in such a manner as to cause loud noises to the disturbance of the peace;

View official code

Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 2026-06-015, passed June 1, 2026).

Full Breakdown

Under BMC 11.33.060(A)(25), a vehicle may not occupy the same spot on a Bellingham street beyond the time limit on an official posted sign, or, where no sign controls the space, beyond 72 consecutive hours. Subsection (B) makes new time-limited or no-parking signage enforceable 24 hours after posting, even in spots normally allowed the full 72 hours. Enforcement runs through the parking services division under BMC 11.33.220-.230 as a civil infraction, not through police-issued criminal citations.

Violations & Fines

Civil infraction; parking meter/permit and general overtime violations carry a $60 fine (or $30 for meter/permit overtime) under BMC 11.33.230(C), plus a $25 late fee after 30 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I park on a Bellingham street overnight?
Yes, as long as the vehicle moves within 72 consecutive hours unless a posted sign sets a shorter limit for that block.
Does moving the car down the block reset the clock?
No. BMC 11.33.060(A)(18) separately bans reparking in the same block just to dodge a time limit.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bellingham

All Bellingham rules

How Bellingham compares: Cities with the Strictest Overnight Parking Rules·Compare Bellingham to another location·View the Washington parking rules overview

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