STOPPING, STANDING OR PARKING RESTRICTIONS

SEA-MC tit. 11, subtit. I, pt. 7, ch. 11.72

in effect

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.000 Provisions of chapter prohibit stopping, standing and parking—Exceptions.

11.72.000 - Provisions of chapter prohibit stopping, standing and parking—Exceptions. The provisions of this chapter prohibit or restrict the stopping, standing, parking or angle parking of a vehicle at all places and times as herein specified or as indicated by official traffic-control devices, except when necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or to comply with the law or the directions of a peace officer or traffic-control devices. (RCW 46.61.570) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.000), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.010 Advertising.

11.72.010 - Advertising. No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle on any street for the primary purpose of advertising, which purpose shall be presumed if a vehicle contains either more than two (2) advertising signs, or two (2) advertising signs, either one of which exceeds an area of six (6) square feet; provided, that nothing in this section shall prevent the stopping, standing or parking of any vehicle while used in the regular course of the same business advertised thereon. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.010), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.020 Alley.

11.72.020 - Alley. No person shall stand or park a vehicle except a commercial vehicle, a vehicle displaying a valid commercial loading permit, or authorized emergency vehicle in an alley. (Ord. 114518 § 5, 1989: Ord. 114251 § 5, 1988: Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.020), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.025 Alley—Driveway.

11.72.025 - Alley—Driveway. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle within an alley in such a position as to block the driveway entrance to any abutting property. (RCW 46.90.433(2)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.025), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.030 Angle—Arterial or bus route.

11.72.030 - Angle—Arterial or bus route. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle other than parallel to the curb on any arterial street or street on which transit coaches are operated except in areas specifically signed or marked for angle parking or except under permit as provided for in Section 11.23.080. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.030), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.035 Blocking or obstructing traffic or sidewalk—Unoccupied vehicle.

11.72.035 - Blocking or obstructing traffic or sidewalk—Unoccupied vehicle. No person shall park a vehicle upon or along any street and exit such vehicle when traffic will be unreasonably obstructed thereby, or when, in areas designated for angle parking, the vehicle is of such a length as to obstruct the sidewalk or the adjacent moving traffic lane. Violation of this section constitutes a parking violation rather than a moving traffic violation. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.035), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.040 Blocking or obstructing traffic

11.72.040 - Blocking or obstructing traffic A. No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle, whether attended or unattended, upon the roadway. B. This Chapter 11.72 and Chapter 11.74 do not apply to the driver of any vehicle that is disabled in such manner and to such extent that it is impossible to avoid stopping and temporarily leaving the vehicle in such position. The driver shall nonetheless arrange for the prompt removal of the vehicle. C. Subsection 11.72.040.A does not apply to the driver of a public transit vehicle who temporarily stops the vehicle upon the roadway for the purpose of and while actually engaged in receiving or discharging passengers at a marked transit vehicle stop zone approved by the state department of transportation. However, public transportation service providers, including private, nonprofit transportation providers regulated under chapter 81.66 RCW, may allow the driver of a transit vehicle to stop upon the roadway momentarily to receive or discharge passengers at an unmarked stop zone only if the driver stops the vehicle in a safe and practicable position, activates four-way flashing lights, and stops at a portion of the roadway with an unobstructed view, for an adequate distance so as to not create a hazard, for other drivers. D. This Chapter 11.72 and Chapter 11.74 do not apply to the driver of a solid waste collection company or recycling company vehicle who temporarily stops the vehicle as close as practical to the right edge of the right-hand shoulder of the roadway or right edge of the roadway if no shoulder exists for the purpose of and while actually engaged in the collection of solid waste or recyclables, or both. (Ord. 125944, § 23, 2019; Ord. 108200, § 2(11.70.240), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.045 Bus patron shelter.

11.72.045 - Bus patron shelter. No person shall stand or park a vehicle, bicycle or other device within, against or adjacent to a bus patron shelter in a manner which restricts or eliminates the use of such a shelter by pedestrians who are waiting for public transportation. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.045), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.050 Bus zone

11.72.050 - Bus zone No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle other than authorized transit agency buses or shuttle vehicles, displaying a valid shuttle vehicle loading permit and authorized to use the particular zone, in a zone established for the specific use. Violators may be impounded without prior notice. (Ord. 126756, § 8, 2023; Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.050), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.051 Curb bulbs.

11.72.051 - Curb bulbs. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle in areas adjacent to curb bulbs so that such vehicle blocks access to an adjacent space or protrudes into a traffic lane. (Ord. 123035, § 5, 2009; Ord. 117043, § 2, 1994.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.053 Carpool parking—Unauthorized vehicles.

11.72.053 - Carpool parking—Unauthorized vehicles. No person shall park a vehicle not displaying a valid carpool parking permit in any space designated and established for the use of certified carpool vehicles during any time period when, as specified by posted signs, parking in such space is restricted to certified carpool vehicles. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.053), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.054 Car sharing vehicle zone.

11.72.054 - Car sharing vehicle zone. No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle other than a car sharing vehicle displaying a car share parking permit of the type issued for the cost of that location within any space marked or signed as reserved for car sharing vehicles. (Ord. 123162, § 3, 2009; Ord. 122779, § 5, 2008.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.055 Class of vehicle.

11.72.055 - Class of vehicle. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle in a parking space designated by signs for a specified class of vehicles other than a vehicle of the class specified. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.055), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.060 Clear roadway.

11.72.060 - Clear roadway. No person shall stand or park a vehicle upon a street, excluding alleys in such a manner as to leave available less than ten (10) feet of the width of the roadway for free movement of vehicular traffic. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.060), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.065 Disabled parking, invalid placard—Violation

11.72.065 - Disabled parking, invalid placard—Violation A. A parking space or stall for a person with a disability shall be indicated by a vertical sign with the international symbol of access, whose colors are white on a blue background, described under RCW 70.92.120, and a warning that other vehicles without permits will be impounded. B. Any person who meets the criteria for special parking privileges under RCW 46.19.010 shall be allowed to park a vehicle being used to transport the holder of such special parking privileges free of charge for a maximum of a four hour time period where designated in parking areas (including areas with parking payment devices) that are otherwise restricted as to the length of time parking is permitted. Areas with four-hour time limits shall be appropriately signed and/or marked. This subsection 11.72.065.B does not apply to those zones or areas in which the stopping, parking, or standing of all vehicles is prohibited or which are reserved for special types of vehicles. C. It is a parking infraction, with a monetary penalty of $250 for any person to stop, stand, or park a vehicle in a parking space or stall provided on private property without charge or on public property reserved for persons with physical disabilities without a placard or special license plate issued under chapter 46.19 RCW. In addition to any penalty or fine imposed under this subsection 11.72.065.C, $200 shall be assessed. If a person is charged with a violation, the person shall not be determined to have committed an infraction if the person establishes that the person operating the vehicle or being transported at the time of the infraction had a valid placard, special license plate or special year tab issued under chapter 46.19 RCW. Such person must sign a statement under penalty of perjury that the placard, special license plate, or special year tab produced prior to the court appearance was valid at the time of infraction and issued as required under chapter 46.19 RCW. D. It is a parking infraction, with a monetary penalty of $250, for any person to stop, stand, park in, block, or otherwise make inaccessible the access aisle located next to a space reserved for persons with physical disabilities. In addition to any penalty or fine imposed under this subsection 11.72.065.D, $200 shall be assessed. E. It is a parking infraction, with a monetary penalty of $250, to fail to fully display a placard or special license plate issued under chapter 46.19 RCW while parked on private property without charge, while parked on public property reserved for persons with physical disabilities or while parking free of charge as allowed under subsection 11.72.065.B. In addition to any penalty or fine imposed under this subsection 11.72.065.D, $200 must be assessed, for a total of $450. For the purpose of this subsection 11.72.065.D, "fully display" means hanging or placing the placard or special license plate so that the full face of the placard or license plate is visible, including the serial number and expiration date of the placard or license plate. If a person is charged with a violation of this subsection 11.72.065.D, that person will not be determined to have committed an infraction if the person produces in court or before the court appearance a valid identification card issued to that person under RCW 46.19.010. F. The court may not suspend more than half of any fine imposed under this Section 11.72.065. For a second or subsequent violation of this Section 11.72.065, in addition to a monetary penalty, a violator must complete a minimum of 40 hours of either community service for a nonprofit organization that serves the disabled community or persons having disabling diseases or any other community service that may sensitize the violator to the needs and obstacles faced by persons who have disabilities. G. The assessment imposed under this Section 11.72.065 shall be allocated as provided by RCW 46.19.050. Any reduction in any penalty and assessment imposed under this Section 11.72.065 shall be applied proportionally between the penalty and the assessment. (Ord. 124950, § 14, 2015; Ord. 123632, § 16, 2011; Ord. 123420, § 19, 2010; Ord. 123035, § 6, 2009; Ord. 122742, § 27, 2008; Ord. 121678 § 1, 2004; Ord. 121525 § 13, 2004; Ord. 121388 § 12, 2004; Ord. 119011 § 19, 1998; Ord. 111835 § 2, 1984.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.070 Commercial and large size vehicles.

11.72.070 - Commercial and large size vehicles. No person shall park a vehicle on any street or alley, except in an Industrial Zone as defined in Title 23, between the hours of midnight and six (6) a.m. if the vehicle is a truck and/or trailer or other conveyance which is over eighty (80) inches wide. (Ord. 123420, § 20, 2010; Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.070), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.075 Commercial load zone.

11.72.075 - Commercial load zone. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle other than a commercial vehicle or a vehicle displaying a valid commercial loading permit in a commercial load zone during the hours the zone restriction is in effect; provided, that commercial load zone restrictions are not effective on Sundays or parking holidays, except where otherwise indicated by signposting for the load zone. (Ord. 122243, § 2, 2006; Ord. 114518 § 6, 1989: Ord. 114251 § 9, 1988.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.080 Crosswalk—On.

11.72.080 - Crosswalk—On. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle on a crosswalk. (RCW 46.61.570(a)(iv)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.080), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.090 Crosswalk approach.

11.72.090 - Crosswalk approach. No person shall stand or park a vehicle within twenty (20) feet upon the approach to a crosswalk. (RCW 46.61.570(b)(iii)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.090), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.100 Double parking.

11.72.100 - Double parking. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle with its side next to or adjacent to another vehicle which is stopped, standing or parked on a street, or alley except while angle parking. (RCW 46.61.570 (a)(i)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.100), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.110 Driveway or alley entrance.

11.72.110 - Driveway or alley entrance. No person shall stand or park a vehicle in front of a public or private driveway within a street or alley or in front of or in an alley entrance or within five feet (5') of the end of a constructed driveway return or alley entrance return, or if none, within five feet (5') of the projection of the edge of the driveway or alley. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.110), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.120 Driveway—Painted curb.

11.72.120 - Driveway—Painted curb. The prohibited area for driveway returns described in Section 11.72.110 may be maintained with traffic yellow paint by the property owner or occupant. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.120), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.125 Electric vehicle parking charging station; electric vehicles.

11.72.125 - Electric vehicle parking charging station; electric vehicles. A. No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle other than an electric vehicle within any space marked or signed as reserved for "electric vehicle parking while charging only." B. It is unlawful to park or permit to be parked any electric vehicle in a space with an electric vehicle charging station that is marked as "electric vehicle parking while charging only" if such electric vehicle is not in the process of charging. C. Electric vehicles may be parked in any space designated for public parking, subject to the restrictions that would apply to any other vehicle that would park in that space. D. For purposes of this Section, the following definitions apply: 1. "Electric vehicle" means any vehicle that operates, either partially or exclusively, on electrical energy from an off-board source, that is stored on-board for motive purpose. "Electric vehicle" includes: a. Any "battery electric vehicle," defined as any vehicle that operates exclusively on electrical energy from an off-board source that is stored in the vehicle's batteries, and produces zero tailpipe emissions or pollution when stationary or operating; b. Any "plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV)," defined as an electric vehicle that a) contains an internal combustion engine and also allows power to be delivered to drive wheels by an electric motor; b) charges its battery primarily by connecting to the grid or other off-board electrical source; c) may additionally be able to sustain battery charge using an on-board internal-combustion-driven generator; and 4) has the ability to travel powered by electricity; c. Any "neighborhood electric vehicle," defined as a self-propelled, electrically powered four-wheeled motor vehicle whose speed attainable in one mile is more than 20 miles per hour and not more than 25 miles per hour and conforms to federal regulations set forth in 49 C.F.R Sec. 571.500; d. Any "medium-speed electric vehicle," defined as a self-propelled, electrically powered four-wheeled motor vehicle, equipped with a roll cage or crush-proof body design, whose speed attainable in one mile is more than 25 miles per hour but not more than 35 miles per hour and otherwise meets or exceeds the federal regulations set forth in 49 C.F.R. Sec. 571.500. 2. "Electric vehicle charging station" means a public parking space that is served by battery charging station equipment that has as its primary purpose the transfer of electric energy (by conductive or inductive means) to a battery or other energy storage device in an electric vehicle, and that is 1) publicly owned and publicly available (e.g., Park & Ride parking, public library parking lot, on-street parking), or 2) privately owned and publicly available (e.g., shopping center parking, non-reserved parking in multi-family parking lots). 3. "Electric vehicle parking space" means any marked parking space that identifies the use to be exclusively for the parking of an electric vehicle. 4. "Non-electric vehicle" means any motor vehicle that does not meet the definition of "electric vehicle". (Ord. 123712, § 3, 2011.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.130 Elevated structure.

11.72.130 - Elevated structure. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle upon any bridge or other elevated structure upon a street or alley or within a street tunnel or alley tunnel. (RCW 46.61.570(1)(a)(vii)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.130), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.140 Excavation or obstruction.

11.72.140 - Excavation or obstruction. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle alongside or opposite any street or alley excavation or obstruction when such stopping, standing or parking would obstruct traffic. (RCW 46.61.570(1)(a)(vi)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.140), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.150 Fire apparatus.

11.72.150 - Fire apparatus. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle within five hundred feet (500') of any fire apparatus, or other Fire Department emergency operation stopped in answer to a fire alarm. It is a defense to violation of this section that a vehicle was so parked prior to the Fire Department's responding to such fire alarm. (RCW 46.61.635) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.150), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.155 Fire exit door.

11.72.155 - Fire exit door. No person shall stand or park a vehicle so as to block a labeled fire exit door which opens into an alley, nor shall a vehicle reduce the egressway to less than four feet (4') between the exit door and a public street. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.155), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.160 Fire hydrant.

11.72.160 - Fire hydrant. No person shall stand or park a vehicle within fifteen feet (15') of a fire hydrant. (RCW 46.61.570(1)(b)(ii)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.160), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.170 Fire station.

11.72.170 - Fire station. No person shall stand or park a vehicle within twenty feet (20') of the driveway entrance to any fire station and on the side of a street opposite the entrance to any fire station within seventy-five feet (75') of the entrance when signposted. (RCW 46.61.570(1)(b)(v)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.170), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.180 Fire area.

11.72.180 - Fire area. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle within any fire area. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.180), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.185 Fire lane.

11.72.185 - Fire lane. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle within any fire lane. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.185), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.190 Flashing signal.

11.72.190 - Flashing signal. No person shall stand or park a vehicle within thirty feet (30') upon the approach to any flashing signal located at the side of a roadway. (RCW 46.61.570(1)(b)(iv)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.190), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.195 Food-vehicle zone

11.72.195 - Food-vehicle zone No vehicle, other than a food vehicle or vending vehicle with a valid Street Use vending permit, shall be stopped or parked in a food-vehicle zone during the hours the zone restriction is in effect or unless allowed by a sign or other traffic control device identifying food-vehicle zone time restrictions. Vending from a permitted food vehicle or vending vehicle may only occur in a designated food-vehicle zone during authorized times. (Ord. 126732, § 11, 2022; Ord. 123659, § 9, 2011.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.200 Fuel loss.

11.72.200 - Fuel loss. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle on a street, alley or way open to the public in such a manner that motor fuel leaks from the tanks thereof. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.200), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.205 Grease dropping.

11.72.205 - Grease dropping. No person shall drop or permit to be dropped from any vehicle or the machinery thereof any oil, grease or similar substance upon the streets or alleys. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.205), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.210 Intersection.

11.72.210 - Intersection. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle within an intersection. (RCW 46.61.570(1)(a)(iii)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.210), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.215 Load and unload zone.

11.72.215 - Load and unload zone. No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle in a load and unload zone, for any purpose or length of time other than for the expeditious pickup and loading or unloading and delivery of persons or property, and then in no case shall the stop for such purposes exceed thirty (30) minutes. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.215), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.220 Temporary No Parking Zone

11.72.220 - Temporary No Parking Zone No person shall, stop, stand, or park a vehicle where an approved Temporary No-Parking Zone has been established and designated by temporary sign(s) or barricade(s), except as otherwise provided in this Subtitle I. (Ord. 125983, § 5, 2019; Ord. 121388, § 13, 2004; Ord. 108200, § 2, 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.230 Moving vehicle of another.

11.72.230 - Moving vehicle of another. A. Except as provided in SMC Chapter 11.30, no person shall move a motor vehicle not lawfully under his or her control when the motor vehicle is occupying a parking stall or space on City property. B. No person shall move a vehicle not lawfully under his or her control into any area where stopping, standing or parking is prohibited or restricted. (Ord. 122761, § 1, 2008; Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.230), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.240 Moving vehicle to avoid time limit.

11.72.240 - Moving vehicle to avoid time limit. No person shall move and repark a vehicle on either side of a street within the same block in order to avoid a parking time limit regulation specified for either side of the street in that particular block. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.240), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.250 Municipal property.

11.72.250 - Municipal property. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle in any garage, parking area or other property operated by the city, where signs prohibit or restrict such stopping, standing or parking without lawful authority or permission. Any motor vehicle so stopped, standing or parked without such authority or permission is a nuisance. Such nuisance may be summarily abated by issuing a parking citation as provided in Section 11.31.030 and/or by impounding in the same manner as provided in Section 11.30.060. The impounding of such a vehicle shall not prevent or preclude the institution and prosecution of charges in the municipal court or elsewhere for violation of this subtitle. (Ord. 112421 § 8, 1985: Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.250), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.255 Music venue zone

11.72.255 - Music venue zone No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle other than a vehicle displaying a valid music venue zone permit in a music venue zone. It is a violation of this Section 11.72.255 if: A. The music venue zone permit is in an improper location within a vehicle. The music venue zone permit must be displayed in accordance with conditions of use; B. The music venue zone permit is being used improperly; C. The music venue zone permit is used for stopping, standing, or parking in areas or zones not designated as music venue zones; or D. A music venue zone permit issued by the City is sold, transferred, or purchased and subsequently used in a music venue zone. (Ord. 127102, § 7, 9-24-2024.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.260 Overtime

11.72.260 - Overtime No person shall stand or park a vehicle upon a street for a longer period of time than the limit that is signposted except for any free-floating car sharing vehicle that conforms to Section 11.23.160 except where otherwise indicated by the signposting on the block or for individual parking spaces. Parking spaces may be used without respect to time limit posted on Sundays and parking holidays, except where otherwise indicated by the signposting on the block or for individual parking spaces. (Ord. 124063, § 5, 2012; Ord. 122243, § 3, 2006; Ord. 112076 § 2, 1984: Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.260), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.270 Overtime—Repeated.

11.72.270 - Overtime—Repeated. Each subsequent period of time, as signposted, lapsing following affixation to a vehicle of a notice of overtime parking shall constitute a further violation of Section 11.72.260. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.270), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.280 Park.

11.72.280 - Park. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle in any park as defined in the Park Code (Ordinance 106615), [16] except in areas designated for such purposes. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.280), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.285 Passenger load zone.

11.72.285 - Passenger load zone. In a passenger load zone during the hours the zone restriction is in effect, no person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle for any purpose or period of time other than for the expeditious loading or unloading of passengers for a period not to exceed three (3) minutes. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.285), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.290 Pavement markings.

11.72.290 - Pavement markings. No person shall stand or park a vehicle in a street or alley area marked with cross-hatched pavement markings or other pavement markings indicating no standing or parking. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.290), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.300 Peak traffic hours.

11.72.300 - Peak traffic hours. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle during peak traffic hours on any day, except Sundays and parking holidays, on any portion of any street when signs are erected giving notice of the specified hours of such prohibition, and except as provided in Section 11.74.120. (Ord. 122243, § 4, 2006; Ord. 112076, § 3, 1984; Ord. 108200, § 2 (11.72.300), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.310 Planted area.

11.72.310 - Planted area. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle within a planted area of any street when such area is planted and maintained in a well-defined manner. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.310), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.320 Planting strip.

11.72.320 - Planting strip. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle on a planting strip unless the vehicle bears a special placard or license plate issued under RCW Chapter 46.19. (Ord. 124302, § 13, 2013; Ord. 112421 § 9, 1985: Ord. 109545 § 2, 1980: Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.320), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.330 Posted signs.

11.72.330 - Posted signs. No person shall: A. Stop, stand or park a vehicle at any place or time where official signs prohibit stopping; B. Stand or park a vehicle at any place or time where official signs prohibit standing; or C. Park a vehicle at any place or time where official signs prohibit parking. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.330), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.350 Railroad tracks—Stopping.

11.72.350 - Railroad tracks—Stopping. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle within six (6) feet of the nearest rail of a railroad track. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.350), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.351 Restricted parking zone

11.72.351 - Restricted parking zone A. No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle in violation of the posted or marked restrictions or when a permit or other authorization issued by the city is required as a condition for parking unless the following permit or placard is displayed: (1) an RPZ permit pursuant to Chapter 11.16; (2) a free-floating car sharing permit pursuant to Section 11.23.160; or (3) a disabled placard permit, license plate, or year tab pursuant to chapter 46.19 RCW. Motorcycles and scooters are authorized to park in an RPZ without an RPZ permit. It shall be a violation of this Section 11.72.351 if: 1. The RPZ permit does not match the vehicle; 2. A guest permit is being used improperly; 3. The zone permit does not match the zone where vehicle is parked, or 4. The vehicle is parked within the same zone as the permit indicates, but it is parked more than six blocks away from the address for which the permit is issued. B. It is unlawful and is a parking infraction to display an RPZ permit in an improper location on a vehicle. If an RPZ permit is a physical permit, it must be affixed to the vehicle in accordance with conditions of use. C. It is unlawful and is a parking infraction to sell, transfer, purchase, or otherwise acquire for value a permit issued by the City per Section 11.16.315 or 11.16.316 and to subsequently use the permit to park in an RPZ. (Ord. 126710, § 2, 2022; Ord. 124063, § 6, 2012; Ord. 123001, § 11, 2009; Ord. 115486, § 1, 1991; Ord. 110967, § 15, 1983; Ord. 108354, § 6, 1979; Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.351), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.352 Husky Stadium Event Restricted Parking Zone.

11.72.352 - Husky Stadium Event Restricted Parking Zone. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle in violation of a posted or marked Husky Stadium Event Restricted Parking Zone unless a permit or other authorization issued by the City or card or decal issued pursuant to RCW 46.16.381 or recognized under RCW 46.16.390 is displayed in a prominent place on the vehicle. (Ord. 119781 § 1, 1999.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.353 School loading zone.

11.72.353 - School loading zone. No person shall park in a school loading zone except for a reasonable period of time while waiting for passengers. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.353), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.355 Servicing vehicles in street.

11.72.355 - Servicing vehicles in street. No person shall park a vehicle in any street or alley to service such vehicle by supplying such vehicle with gasoline, oil or water; or by changing or renewing the tires thereof; or by washing the same; or by repairing the same in any manner which leaves the vehicle on the street or alley in an inoperable condition: Provided, however, that necessary service may be rendered to a vehicle so disabled that the same cannot be operated under its own power or without damage or injury thereto. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.355), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.357 Shuttle vehicle load zone

11.72.357 - Shuttle vehicle load zone No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle other than a shuttle vehicle displaying a valid shuttle vehicle loading permit in a shuttle vehicle load zone during the hours the zone restriction is in effect; provided that shuttle vehicle load zone restrictions are not effective on Sundays or parking holidays, except where otherwise indicated by sign posting for the zone. (Ord. 126756, § 9, 2023; Ord. 122243, § 5, 2006; Ord. 121917 § 4, 2005.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.360 Sidewalk.

11.72.360 - Sidewalk. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle on or over a sidewalk, whether constructed or not. (RCW 46.61.570(1)(a)(ii)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.360), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.370 Stop sign approach.

11.72.370 - Stop sign approach. No person shall stand or park a vehicle within thirty (30) feet upon approaching any stop sign located at the side of a roadway. (RCW 46.61.570(1)(b)(iv)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.370), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.390 Street—Limited access.

11.72.390 - Street—Limited access. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle on any limited access street except as provided in Section 11.54.100. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.390), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.400 Taxicab zone.

11.72.400 - Taxicab zone. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle other than a taxicab within any space reserved for taxicabs. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.400), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.410 Tow-away zone.

11.72.410 - Tow-away zone. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle within any space signed or marked as a tow-away zone. Violators will be impounded. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.410), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.415 Trail or path.

11.72.415 - Trail or path. No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle, bicycle, or other device on or adjacent to a trail, path, lane or other facility or way which has been designated for the use of pedestrians, equestrians, or bicyclists, in such a manner as to obstruct or restrict the use of any portion thereof: Provided, that authorized emergency and maintenance vehicles are excluded from the provisions of this section when engaged in necessary emergency or maintenance work. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.415), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.420 Traffic-control signal approach.

11.72.420 - Traffic-control signal approach. No person shall stand or park a vehicle within thirty (30) feet upon the approach to any traffic-control signal located at the side of a roadway. (RCW 46.61.570(1)(b)(iv)) (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.420), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.430 Trailer or camper — Detached

11.72.430 - Trailer or camper — Detached A. No person shall detach and park any trailer or camper on any street or alley: provided that in case of collision the trailer or camper may be moved to a portion of the street or alley where parking a motor vehicle is lawful, and if a red signal is displayed at both ends of the camper or trailer during the hours of darkness, the trailer or camper may be allowed to remain for a period not exceeding 24 hours pending removal; further provided that the trailer or camper shall not remain upon any portion of a street or alley where standing or parking is limited or prohibited for a period longer than is necessary to effect its removal. B. A permittee may detach and park a trailer used for vending purposes in a pedestrian mall or plaza; or detach in a legal parking space a trailer used for vending purposes and position the trailer at the approved sidewalk location; provided, all vending activity conforms to Chapter 15.17 and all necessary permits have been obtained. (Ord. 123659, § 10, 2011; Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.430), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.435 Truck load zone—Passenger vehicles.

11.72.435 - Truck load zone—Passenger vehicles. No person shall stop, stand, or park a passenger vehicle, including truck-licensed taxicabs, in a truck load zone during the hours the zone restriction is in effect: Provided, that passenger vehicles other than taxicabs which are commercial vehicles may stop, stand, or park in a truck load zone as provided in Section 11.74.020: Provided further, that truck load zone restrictions are not effective on Sundays or parking holidays except where otherwise indicated by signposting for the load zone. (Ord. 122243, § 6, 2006; Ord. 112113 § 1, 1985: Ord. 112076 § 4, 1984: Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.435), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.440 Parking Enforcement; Seventy-two (72) hours.

11.72.440 - Parking Enforcement; Seventy-two (72) hours. A. Official signs, including temporary signs, that prohibit stopping, standing or parking shall be enforceable according to their terms twenty-four hours after posting. B. No person shall park a vehicle on any street or other municipal property for a period of time longer than seventy-two (72) hours, unless an official posted sign provides a shorter period of time, or unless otherwise provided by law. C. Authorized vehicles on municipal property are excluded from the provisions of this section, as are vehicles displaying valid proof of payment when parked in spaces controlled by a parking payment device. D. This section shall not apply to "junk motor vehicles" or "abandoned junk motor vehicles" as defined in this Chapter. E. Vehicles in violation of this section are subject to impound as provided for in Chapter 11.30 SMC, in addition to any other penalty provided for by law. (Ord. 122274, § 3, 2006; Ord. 120573, § 1, 2001; Ord. 120097 § 1, 2000: Ord. 112113 § 2, 1985: Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.440), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.445 Truck tractor parking

11.72.445 - Truck tractor parking No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle other than a truck tractor as defined in Section 11.14.685 in a space designated for truck tractor parking during the hours truck tractor parking is in effect as indicated by sign posting for the space. The Director of the Seattle Department of Transportation shall promulgate rules to implement this Section 11.72.445, including but not limited to a description of the justification for truck tractor parking zones, the criteria used to locate these zones, and the public outreach process for implementing these zones. (Ord. 126647, § 1, 2022.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.450 Type of vehicle.

11.72.450 - Type of vehicle. No person shall stand or park a vehicle in a parking space designated for "D" licensed vehicles, police vehicles, fire vehicles, foreign consular vehicles, U.S. Marshal vehicles, or ambulance vehicles other than the type of vehicle specified. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.450), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.452 Vending zone

11.72.452 - Vending zone No vehicle, other than a food vehicle or vending vehicle with a valid Street Use vending permit, shall be stopped or parked in a vending zone during the hours the zone restriction is in effect or unless allowed by a sign or other traffic control device identifying vending zone time restrictions. Vending from a permitted vending unit may only occur in a designated vending zone during days and times authorized by the permit for use of that vending zone. (Ord. 126732, § 12, 2022.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.460 Wall or fence.

11.72.460 - Wall or fence. No person shall stand or park a vehicle alongside any wall, fence, or other physical obstructions where there is no sufficient sidewalk for the use of pedestrians in a reasonable manner or to permit persons to exit from the vehicle on the sidewalk side thereof. (Ord. 123035, § 7, 2009; Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.460), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.465 Curb ramp.

11.72.465 - Curb ramp. No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle in front of or on a curb ramp or curb ramp return. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.465), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.470 Wrong side parking.

11.72.470 - Wrong side parking. No person shall stop, stand or park a vehicle on that portion of any street or alley lawfully set aside for the parking of vehicles or movement of traffic in the direction opposite to that which the parked vehicle faces. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.470), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.480 Yield sign approach.

11.72.480 - Yield sign approach. No person shall stand or park a vehicle within thirty (30) feet upon the approach to any yield sign located at the side of a roadway. (Ord. 108200, § 2(11.72.480), 1979.)

Seattle Mun. Code § 11.72.500 Junk vehicles.

11.72.500 - Junk vehicles. A. No person shall park a junk motor vehicle on a street, alley, or way open to the public, or on municipal or other public property. B. Violation of subsection A is a Class 1 civil infraction as contemplated by Chapter 7.80 RCW for which there shall be a penalty of Two Hundred Fifty Dollars ($250), which penalty shall not be suspended or deferred. (Ord. 120102 § 3, 2000.)

Source: City of Seattle, Seattle Municipal Code and City Charter (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/wa/seattle/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT11VETR_SUBTITLE_ITRCO_PT7STSTPALO_CH11.72STSTPAREFetched: 11/1/2026