Unincorporated San Mateo County has no general overnight parking ban on most streets. Specific residential neighborhoods may have permit parking. California Vehicle Code §22651(k) allows towing vehicles parked over 72 hours in same spot.
San Mateo County unincorporated areas generally allow overnight street parking except in designated permit parking zones or where posted prohibitions apply. CVC §22651(k) is the primary tool: any vehicle left standing in the same spot on a public street for more than 72 hours may be cited and towed. Some unincorporated neighborhoods like North Fair Oaks have limited residential permit parking programs administered by the Department of Public Works. SFO proximity areas have commercial vehicle restrictions. Coastside community plans (Montara, Moss Beach, El Granada) encourage on-site parking. Parking on unpaved shoulders and in bike lanes is prohibited. Street sweeping signs override general rules where posted. Disabled placards do not override time restrictions.
72-hour violation under CVC §22651(k): $65 citation and tow at owner expense (typically $300+ plus storage). Street sweeping violations: $65. Permit parking violations: $50-$75. Towing fees recoverable by vehicle owner.
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See how San Mateo County's overnight parking rules stack up against other locations.
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