Tuolumne County Street Parking Limits Rules (2026) — What You Need to Know
Few RestrictionsKey Facts
- Street Parking Time Limit
- 72 hours (CA Vehicle Code)
- Obstructing Traffic
- Prohibited — Chapter 10.24
- Abandoned Vehicles
- Sheriff's Dept + CA Vehicle Code 22651(k)
- AVA Program Contact
- (209) 533-5891
- Local Parking Ordinance
- Chapter 10.24 (limited scope)
The Short Version
Tuolumne County has limited local parking regulations compared to urban areas. Chapter 10.24 of the county code prohibits obstructing vehicular traffic on county roads. Abandoned vehicles are handled under California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k), which prohibits leaving a vehicle on a public highway for more than 72 consecutive hours. The county participates in the state's Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) program through the Sheriff's Department.
Full Breakdown
As a rural county, Tuolumne County has minimal local parking regulations. Chapter 10.24 (Stopping, Standing and Parking) of the county code addresses basic rules like prohibiting vehicles from obstructing traffic on county roads, but there are no meters, permit zones, or overnight parking bans like you would find in urban areas.
The primary parking enforcement tool is California Vehicle Code Section 22651(k), which makes it illegal to leave a vehicle on any public highway for more than 72 consecutive hours. This state law is enforced by the Tuolumne County Sheriff's Department. Vehicles that exceed the 72-hour limit can be towed and impounded, with the owner responsible for all towing and storage fees.
For abandoned vehicles on private property or along county roads, the county participates in California's Abandoned Vehicle Abatement (AVA) program. You can report abandoned vehicles to the program coordinator at (209) 533-5891 (28 N. Lower Sunset Dr., Sonora, CA 95370). The program handles removal of vehicles that have been abandoned on public right-of-way or visible from public roads.
What Happens If You Violate This?
Vehicles left on public roads beyond 72 hours can be towed under California Vehicle Code 22651(k). The registered owner is responsible for towing and storage fees, which accumulate daily. Obstructing traffic on county roads violates Chapter 10.24 and is enforced under the county's general code compliance framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can I park on a county road in Tuolumne County?
How do I report an abandoned vehicle?
Are there RV parking restrictions in Tuolumne County?
Sources & Official References
How does Tuolumne County compare?
See how Tuolumne County's street parking limits rules stack up against other locations.