Dubuque, IA Parking Rules: Overnight Parking (2026)

Dubuque City Code § 9-15-321.760 explains why: unattended cars left in public places for more than 24 hours impede traffic, interfere with the enjoyment of property, reduce property values, invite vandalism, create fire hazards and become a public-safety hazard. Section 9-15-321.761 defines an 'unattended motor vehicle' as any operable or non-operable vehicle that has remained stationary on a public way for 24 hours or more, whether or not it runs. Under § 9-15-321.762, the City Manager can act on a complaint or on the City's own initiative, and once there's evidence a vehicle has sat for more than 24 hours without moving, the City Manager issues a notice of fine under § 9-14-321.621.

If the vehicle hasn't moved within another 24 hours of that notice, or the City already has evidence it sat for more than 48 hours before the notice went out, the City Manager may have it removed, making a reasonable effort first to contact the last registered owner. Section 9-15-321.763 makes clear this 24-hour rule doesn't limit the City's separate authority to immediately remove a vehicle parked in violation of any other section of Title 9, such as fire lanes or snow routes. Once towed, § 9-15-321.770 requires certified-mail notice to the owner and lienholders within 20 days, and they have 21 days to reclaim the vehicle after paying accrued fines, towing and storage costs, with a 14-day extension available on written request before that window closes.

Failing to reclaim within that period is treated as a waiver of all right, title and interest in the vehicle, clearing the way for public auction or disposal under Iowa law per § 9-15-321.772.