Chicago, IL Parking Rules: Street Parking Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Driveway/alley/firelane block fine
- $150.00
- Hydrant clearance required
- 15 feet
- Crosswalk clearance
- 20 feet
- Traffic signal/stop sign clearance
- 30 feet
Summary
Chicago bans parking that blocks a driveway, alley or firelane, with a flat $150 ticket for blocking access to any of the three.
it shall be unlawful to park any vehicle in any of the following places: (a) Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant; ... (c) At any place where the vehicle will block vehicular access to or use of a driveway, alley or firelane; (d) At any place where the vehicle will block the use of a curb cut access for handicapped pedestrians;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-74: Current through Council Journal of June 17, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Chicago Municipal Code § 9-64-100 bans parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant, in a firelane, or at any place where a vehicle blocks vehicular access to a driveway, alley or firelane. It also bars parking over a curb cut used by pedestrians with disabilities, within 20 feet of a marked crosswalk, or within 30 feet of a traffic signal or stop sign on the approaching side. Enforcement is by parking ticket, with the fine amount set by subsection.
Violations & Fines
$150 fine for blocking a driveway, alley or firelane (§ 9-64-100(b)-(c)); $150 for parking within 15 ft of a hydrant; $75 for blocking a handicap curb cut; $100 for blocking a theater entrance; $60 near a crosswalk or signal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I park in front of my own driveway in Chicago?
How close to a fire hydrant can I park in Chicago?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chicago
Compare Chicago to another location·View the Illinois parking rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Street Parking Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Cook County handle street parking limits.