Austin, TX Parking Rules: Street Parking Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing code
- Austin City Code Section 12-5-1
- Blocking driveway
- Barred by Transp. Code 545.302
- Wrong-way parking
- Illegal under Transp. Code 545.303
- Offense type
- Civil offense (Section 12-5-52)
- Enforcement
- Transportation/Public Works; municipal court
Summary
Austin makes it a civil offense to park in violation of the city code or state law, so the Texas Transportation Code bans on blocking a driveway and parking against traffic are enforced on every Austin street.
(A) A person may not: (1) stop, stand, or park a motor vehicle in violation of this chapter or state law; or (2) allow a motor vehicle owned by the person or registered in the person's name to stop, stand, or park in violation of this chapter or state law. (B) If a motor vehicle is found parked in violation of this chapter or state law, proof that the motor vehicle is registered in a person's name is prima facie evidence that the person committed the violation.
Full Breakdown
City Code Section 12-5-1 says a person may not stop, stand, or park a motor vehicle in violation of this chapter or state law, and Section 12-5-52 makes every parking violation a civil offense. That folds in Texas Transportation Code Section 545.302(b)(1), which bars standing or parking in front of a public or private driveway, and Section 545.303(a), which requires the right-hand wheels within 18 inches of the curb facing the direction of travel, so wrong-way parking is illegal. Austin Transportation and Public Works issues citations, and the municipal court's hearing officers adjudicate them and can order immobilization or impoundment.
Violations & Fines
Parking violations are civil offenses handled by municipal court hearing officers, who assess civil fines, costs, and fees. An unanswered citation is treated as an admission of liability, and a vehicle may be immobilized or towed at the owner's expense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be ticketed for blocking a driveway in Austin?
Is parking against traffic (wrong-way) illegal in Austin?
Are Austin parking tickets criminal?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Austin
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Austin to another location·View the Texas parking rules overview
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Street Parking Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Travis County handle street parking limits.