CityRulesQuiet Hours & City Rules

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Overnight Parking & Winter Bans in San Francisco

Know when to move your vehicle, which streets require permits, and how towing is enforced during winter bans.

San Francisco, CaliforniaLocal timezone: America/Los_AngelesCity coverage

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San Francisco, California skyline
San Francisco overnight parking is generally allowed, but the City enforces a 72-hour limit on staying in the same spot; vehicles left longer can be cited and towed. See SFMTA guidance on the 72-hour rule (how to park legally). Many residential blocks use the Residential Parking Permit (RPP) program;permits let residents exceed posted time limits in their zone, but they do not exempt the 72-hour rule; apply on the RPP page. There is no citywide San Francisco winter parking ban, but towing is enforced year-round; recovery details are on SFMTA's towed vehicles. Tip: if you are storing a car, move it every few days and always check RPP, meter, and street-cleaning signs to avoid a tow.

Overnight parking

Allowed when no bans active

Typical overnight window: Allowed unless posted; 72-hour limit on staying in the same spot.

Permit requirement

No permit required

Winter parking ban

Not listed

No seasonal ban recorded, but snow emergencies may trigger restrictions.

Towing enforced

Yes, towing enforced

Typical fines and enforcement

Fines vary by violation; towing and storage fees apply where applicable.

Fines vary by violation; towing and storage fees apply where applicable.

Always confirm the latest posted signage before leaving a vehicle overnight.

During snow emergencies the municipality advises: No fixed winter ban; follow temporary tow-away and street-cleaning restrictions..

Parking details

Overnight window: Allowed unless posted; 72-hour limit on staying in the same spot.

Winter ban months: Not listed

Snow emergency: No fixed winter ban; follow temporary tow-away and street-cleaning restrictions.

Typical ticket amounts: Fines vary by violation; towing and storage fees apply where applicable.

Official resources

Source: How to Park Legally in San Francisco

Last checked on .

Snow emergency template

Message to landlord or HOA

Hello property manager, The city has a winter parking ban from Not listed and restricts overnight parking No seasonal ban hours published. During snow emergencies, the city instructs drivers: No fixed winter ban; follow temporary tow-away and street-cleaning restrictions.. Could you share a reminder with residents so we can avoid towing or tickets? Reference: https://www.cityrules.info/parking-rules/united-states/california/san-francisco

Frequently asked questions

Answers are summarized from the city bylaw for quick reference. For the full context, follow the official links below.

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