Selma, CA Parking Rules: Overnight Parking (2026)

The absence of a blanket overnight parking ban in Selma distinguishes the city from many California municipalities that prohibit or restrict street parking during late-night and early-morning hours, typically between 2:00 AM and 6:00 AM. In Selma, residents and visitors may park personal vehicles on public streets overnight without obtaining a special permit or facing automatic citation for the overnight presence of the vehicle alone. This policy reflects the practical needs of a city where many households have more vehicles than available driveway or garage space, and where on-street parking serves as an essential extension of residential parking capacity. Despite the lack of a general overnight ban, several important restrictions apply to vehicles left on the street overnight. The 72-hour rule under California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k) remains in effect at all times, meaning that a vehicle cannot be left in the same spot night after night without being moved. After 72 consecutive hours in the same location, the vehicle is subject to citation and potential towing regardless of whether it is parked during the day or overnight. This rule prevents de facto vehicle storage on public streets while allowing reasonable overnight parking for vehicles that are in regular use. Commercial vehicle restrictions under SMC 10-10-26 apply around the clock, so no commercial motor truck, truck tractor, or semi-trailer may be parked on a residential street overnight or at any other time. This prohibition is particularly relevant for residents who drive commercial vehicles for work and might otherwise park them on their residential street overnight. These vehicles must be stored in approved commercial areas, private property, or designated parking zones identified under SMC 10-10-27. Recreational vehicles and trailers parked on the street overnight must fall within the 72-hour-per-month loading and unloading window established by SMC 10-10-33(B). Overnight RV parking is not a general right but rather a component of the limited loading allowance. Vehicles parked overnight must also comply with all posted restrictions, including street sweeping schedules that may require vehicles to be moved during early morning hours on designated days. Ignoring posted street sweeping times results in parking citations even if the vehicle would otherwise be legally parked. Residents who experience problems with abandoned vehicles, non-compliant commercial trucks, or other parking issues during overnight hours should contact the Selma Police Department non-emergency line. The department patrols residential areas and responds to overnight parking complaints on a priority basis.