Can I get a ticket for parking in my own yard?

If you are not parked in a permanent parking area, the answer is yes.  According to the City Ordinance, a permanent parking area must meet certain criteria.  A permanent parking area should be Asphalt, concrete or other hard surface made of dustless materials, or clearly defined by side borders of plants, landscape ties, pressure treated wood, brick or concrete or similar border materials.  In addition, it cannot exceed 50 percent of the front yard, and no more than four vehicles can be parked there.

The legislation was passed by the City Council in 2007.  In 2012, the City Council increased the fine, making a 1st Offense- $100, 2nd Offense- $300, and 3rd Offense $525.

City Ordinance

(18) In a yard of any lot zoned as a residential district under the city zoning ordinance, on any area other than a permanent parking area, which is either:

  1. Asphalt, concrete or other hard surface dustless materials, or
  2. Clearly defined by side borders of plants, landscape ties, pressure treated wood, brick or concrete or similar border materials.
  3. No permanent parking area shall exceed 50 percent of the area of the front yard, and not more than four vehicles may be parked therein.
Janie Landry
Author: Janie Landry