CityRulesQuiet Hours & City Rules

United States

Overnight Parking & Winter Bans in Seattle

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

Seattle, WashingtonLocal timezone: America/Los_AngelesCity coverage

Last verified on

Seattle, Washington skyline
Seattle overnight parking is allowed, but the City enforces a strict 72-hour limit on the same block; violations can lead to citation and impound under the 72-hour ordinance. Many neighborhoods have RPZ (permit) restrictions;residents can apply on the RPZ permits page. There is no standing Seattle winter parking ban; during storms, SDOT asks drivers to obey posted closures and give plows space (see winter weather response). Towing is enforced by SPD Parking Enforcement. Tip: if you will be away, have someone move your car within 72 hours and avoid arterials or RPZ blocks to prevent a tow.

Overnight parking

Allowed when no bans active

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

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; 72-hour impounds and posted restrictions enforced by SPD Parking Enforcement.

Fines vary by violation; 72-hour impounds and posted restrictions enforced by SPD Parking Enforcement.

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

During snow emergencies the municipality advises: No standing winter ban; during storms SDOT asks drivers to obey posted closures and give plows space..

Parking details

Overnight window: Allowed unless posted; 72-hour limit on the same block.

Winter ban months: Not listed

Snow emergency: No standing winter ban; during storms SDOT asks drivers to obey posted closures and give plows space.

Typical ticket amounts: Fines vary by violation; 72-hour impounds and posted restrictions enforced by SPD Parking Enforcement.

Official resources

Source: City of Seattle 72-Hour On-Street Parking Ordinance

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 standing winter ban; during storms SDOT asks drivers to obey posted closures and give plows space.. Could you share a reminder with residents so we can avoid towing or tickets? Reference: https://www.cityrules.info/parking-rules/united-states/washington/seattle

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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