Modesto, CA Parking Rules: Preferential Parking Districts (2026)

Article 19 (Sections 3-2.1900 through 3-2.1912) governs Modesto's residential parking permit program, enacted to curb long-term non-resident congestion on neighborhood streets. To start the process, residents or property owners must submit a petition bearing valid signatures and phone numbers from at least sixty-seven (67) percent of those in the proposed area (Section 3-2.1901). The City Engineer then studies whether the area qualifies, and the Council holds a public hearing; it may designate the zone by resolution only after finding the area has unique parking problems that outweigh general public access needs.

That resolution fixes the zone boundaries, time limitations, and restricted days. Council will not reconsider establishment of the same area more than once a year. Eligible "residential areas" are limited to parcels zoned R-1, R-2, or R-3 (Section 3-2.1902(d)). Once posted with signs under Section 3-2.1903, vehicles displaying a valid resident, guest, or business permit are exempt from the zone's restrictions, though a permit never guarantees an actual parking space (Sections 3-2.1905, 3-2.1907(c)). Permits run for a maximum of one year and require current DMV registration and proof of residency inside the zone (Section 3-2.1906).

Fees for resident, guest, and business permits, plus replacement fees, are set by Council resolution (Section 3-2.1908), and permits terminate on sale of the vehicle, the permittee's move, or expiration (Section 3-2.1909). A zone can later be dissolved: Section 3-2.1911 allows a disestablishment petition signed by at least fifty-one (51) percent of residents or owners, or a written request from a major adjacent employer or institution, followed by another Council hearing and resolution.