Des Moines, IA Parking Rules: Street Parking Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Driveway clearance
- no parking within 2 feet
- Driveway-block fine
- $35
- Wrong-way parking fine
- $20
- Curb distance rule
- within 18 inches of curb
- Max time in one spot
- 24 hours
Summary
Des Moines bans parking on sidewalks, in intersections, and in front of or within two feet of any driveway, with a $35 fine, plus a separate right-hand-curb rule against wrong-way parking.
No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle, except when necessary to avoid a conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the directions of a police officer or traffic control device, in any of the following places: (1) On a sidewalk. (2) In front of or within two feet of a public or private driveway. (3) Within an intersection. (4) On a crosswalk. ... (d) A person who violates the provisions of this section shall pay a $35.00 fine.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City code bars stopping, standing or parking on a sidewalk, within an intersection, on a crosswalk, or in front of or within two feet of a public or private driveway: enforced with a $35 fine under Sec. 114-358. A related rule, Sec. 114-361, requires every parked vehicle's right-hand wheels to sit parallel to and within 18 inches of the right-hand curb, which bars parking facing oncoming traffic (wrong-way parking) and carries a $20 fine. Vehicles also cannot sit in one spot on a public street for more than 24 hours (Sec. 114-361.13).
Violations & Fines
Driveway or sidewalk blocking, intersection/crosswalk parking, and other Sec. 114-358 violations: $35 fine. Wrong-way (left-hand curb) parking under Sec. 114-361: $20 fine. Fines are set by city ordinance and may be appealed through Des Moines Municipal Court.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I park in front of my own driveway in Des Moines?
Is it illegal to park facing traffic in Des Moines?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Des Moines
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