Columbus, OH Parking Rules: Snow Removal Parking Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Trigger
- Mayor-declared snow emergency
- Notice
- Deemed known 2 hrs after announcement
- Prohibited
- Stopping on designated/posted streets
- Consequence
- Towing plus storage costs, owner pays
- Who designates streets
- Director of public service
Summary
Columbus bans stopping on designated snow-emergency streets once the mayor declares a snow emergency, with towing at the owner's expense.
Whenever a snow emergency is in effect, no person shall stop or allow to be stopped, abandon, or leave unattended any motor vehicle on a public street in the city that is either designated for snow removal or posted as a "no stopping" zone in accordance with Section 2157.05. The owner or operator of a motor vehicle found in violation of this section shall be deemed to have committed a parking infraction, pursuant to Chapter 2150 and shall be responsible for all towing and storage costs.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 85 | Form Based Code: ?).
Full Breakdown
Under City Code Chapter 2157, the mayor may declare a snow emergency when the National Weather Service forecasts 2 inches of snow with more expected, or when ice is impairing safe travel. Owners are deemed on notice 2 hours after the announcement airs on local media. Once in effect, no one may stop, abandon, or leave a vehicle unattended on a street designated for snow removal or posted "No Stopping During Snow Emergency." The director of public service designates the covered arterial streets and districts. A violator commits a parking infraction under Chapter 2150 and owes all towing and storage costs for a vehicle removed by police order during the emergency.
Violations & Fines
Parking infraction under Chapter 2150; vehicle may be towed with owner responsible for towing and storage costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a snow emergency is in effect in Columbus?
Which streets does the snow emergency parking ban cover?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Columbus
Compare Columbus to another location·View the Ohio parking rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.