Wichita, KS Parking Rules: Snow Removal Parking Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governs
- Designated snow emergency routes
- Declared by
- City manager, per Ch. 11.39
- Takes effect
- 2 hours after announcement
- Towing
- Allowed without owner notice
- Max fine
- $500 (Sec. 11.92.010)
Summary
When Wichita's city manager declares a snow emergency, parking is banned on designated snow emergency routes until streets are cleared curb to curb, with towing authorized citywide.
Whenever the manager finds, on the basis of falling snow, sleet, or freezing rain, or on the basis of a forecast ... that weather conditions will make it necessary that motor vehicle traffic be expedited and that parking on city streets be prohibited or restricted for snow plowing and other purposes, the manager shall put into effect a parking prohibition on parts of or all snow emergency routes as necessary by declaring it in a manner prescribed in this chapter. ... While the prohibition is in effect, no person shall park or allow to remain parked any vehicle on any portion of a snow emergency route to which it applies.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 35).
Full Breakdown
Wichita Municipal Code Chapter 11.39 lets the city manager declare a parking prohibition on snow emergency routes whenever falling or forecast snow, sleet, or freezing rain will require plowing. The ban applies block by block until a street is clear curb to curb, takes effect at least two hours after the manager announces it over local broadcast, and street areas automatically drop out once cleared. Vehicles parked or stalled on an active route can be towed by police without owner notice, and stalled drivers must get their vehicle off the route immediately.
Violations & Fines
Parking or leaving a stalled vehicle on a snow emergency route during an active ban is a misdemeanor; police may tow without notice, and general traffic-title violations carry fines up to $500.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a snow emergency is in effect?
Can my car be towed during a snow emergency?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wichita
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