Denver is the capital city of Colorado in the United States which is a famous landmark for its 19-century buildings. In addition, Denver is famous for its art, culture, food, music, and sports. In this article we shall see Denver parking tickets
Parking regulations are pretty strict in Denver, and parking fines range between $25 to $75 depending on the violation committed by the driver. Denver does not impound towed vehicles, and the fee for towing vehicles & relocating them to another location is $100. Denver has 24-hour metered street parking, overnight parking is metered in most areas of Denver, and on Sundays & certain public holidays, parking is free.
Denver Parking Rules
The following rules must be known when parking in Denver:
- park within 18 inches from the curb
- while street parking at least 2 feet distance should be kept between vehicles
- park at least 10 feet distant away near a fire hydrant
- when parking near a fire station – keep at least 20 feet distance from the entrance; and at least 75 feet distance when parking opposite the fire station
- park at least 5 feet distance away near alleys or driveways
- park at least 20 feet distance away adjacent to a crosswalk
- avoid parking in a crosswalk, intersection, on a sidewalk, or in any way blocking the sideway or driveway
- park at least 50 feet distance away from adjacent to a railroad crossing
Street Parking and Overnight Parking In Denver
Denver’s meter street parking rate is $1 per hour from Monday to Saturday. Street parking in Denver is free on Sundays, public holidays & festivals. Denver has a 24-hours metered street parking system, but the charges for overnight parking, starting from 10 pm onwards, are different. The parking rate between 10 pm and 2 am is $1/hour, 50 cents/hour between 2 am and 6 am, and free between 6 am and 8 am. The total overnight parking charges from 10 pm to 8 am are $6.
Street Sweeping Restrictions For Overnight Parking In Denver
Every year, residential street sweeping in Denver is carried out at night from April to November. Red and white signs are posted for the sweeping schedule. Both sides of the street are cleaned on different days. Only one side of the street is available for overnight parking from Monday to Thursday. Overnight parking is allowed on both sides of the street on Fridays & Saturdays.
Off-Street Parking In Denver
Off-street parking in Denver, although more costly than street parking, is safer. Denver parking lots and garages are affordable parking options. Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) operates multiple public parking garages, surface parking lots in the city, and many private parking spaces near frequently visited neighborhoods.
Surface parking lots charge $3 – $12 on non-event days and $5 – $12 for event parking. The option for monthly parking is also available at these DOTI-operated surface lots.
The public garage parking rates vary from $3 – $10 for non-event parking to $5 – $20 for event parking; rates are subject to change based on demand.
Self-parking at parking lots and garages costs, on average, about $4 – $24, and valet parking around $30 a day. Monthly parking rates vary from $100 – $300, and monthly downtown parking will be $150.
Conclusion
Denver has both street parking and off-street parking options. Street parking is cheaper but unreliable, and off-street parking is a bit costlier, but affordable options can be found and are more reliable. It’s essential to understand the parking rules & regulations, curb colors, and the parking signs for street parking in Denver to avoid paying hefty parking tickets. Applying for a Residential Parking Permit is beneficial for the residents to avoid certain parking restrictions within a prescribed area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which department manages the street parking in Denver?
The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) manages Street parking in Denver.
- What if you fail to pay a parking ticket in Denver?
Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) will issue a seizure for three or more pending tickets, and the vehicle may be booted, adding a $100 boot fee to the outstanding ticket. In addition, if the payment is not cleared within 72 hours, the vehicle will be abandoned and towed, adding another $100 tow fee.
- How to pre-book a parking spot in Denver?
Pre-book parking spots through parking apps like Way.com, SpotAngels, etc., for the lowest rates and fuss-free parking. Secure garages are available for $10 a day online.
- Is online payment for fines available for parking violations?
Online payment is applicable for booted vehicles but not for towed vehicles. In-person OK payments can be made in Denver Parking Violation Bureau from 8 am to 5 pm on Monday to Friday, and online payments must be made from 8 am to 4:30 pm.
