New York Street Parking Limits Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know

Heavy Restrictions

Last verified: January 8, 2026|Source: NYC Department of Transportation →

Key Facts

Alternate Side Parking: 1-2 times/week street sweeping move
ASP Violation Fine: $65
Meter Rates: $1.50 – $7.50/hour
Max Unmoved Duration: 7 days
Annual Tickets Issued: 10+ million

The Short Version

NYC street parking is governed by the Alternate Side Parking (ASP) system — the thing every New Yorker loves to hate. Most residential streets require you to move your car for street sweeping 1-2 times per week, depending on the neighborhood. Failure to move costs you $65. Meter rates vary from $1.50 to $7.50 per hour depending on the neighborhood and time. There's no citywide time limit for unmetered residential parking as long as you follow ASP rules, but vehicles can't sit unmoved for more than 7 consecutive days. The city writes over 10 million parking tickets annually.

Full Breakdown

Alternate Side Parking is the backbone of NYC's street parking system. Signs on each block specify when you need to move — typically for 90 minutes, 1-2 days per week, during street sweeping hours. As of 2023, the city streamlined ASP to once per week on many blocks that previously required twice-weekly moves.

The practical reality: if you park on the street in NYC, you either set alarms to move your car or you pay the $65 ticket. Many residents choose the ticket over losing a good spot, which the city knows and arguably relies on as revenue. The city brings in over $500 million annually from parking fines.

Metered parking uses the ParkNYC app or physical meters. Rates vary dramatically: $1.50/hour in outer borough commercial strips, up to $7.50/hour in midtown Manhattan. Most meters have 1-2 hour limits. Overnight metered parking is generally free (7 PM to 8 AM in most areas). Commercial vehicles have their own rules and face much steeper fines for violations.

What Happens If You Violate This?

ASP violations are $65. Expired meter tickets are $65-$115 depending on the zone. Double parking is $115. Blocking a fire hydrant is $115. Blocking a crosswalk is $115. Unpaid tickets accrue late fees and can result in boot or tow at $185 tow fee plus daily storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alternate Side Parking suspended on holidays?

ASP is suspended on major holidays and some religious observances — the city publishes the full calendar each year at nyc.gov. Metered parking rules are also suspended on Sundays and most holidays.

Can I just sit in my car during ASP hours instead of moving it?

Yes. You can sit in your car (engine off) during ASP hours and move when the sweeper comes. If a traffic agent approaches, you have to be able to move immediately. This is technically called "double parking in place" by residents.

How long can I leave my car on a NYC street?

As long as you follow ASP rules and the car has valid registration and plates, there's no time limit except the 7-day unmoved vehicle rule. Cars that sit in the same spot for 7+ days without moving can be reported and towed.

How does New York compare?

See how New York's street parking limits rules stack up against other locations.

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