Richmond Council Shrinks No-Parking Zone Near Stop Signs
The change reduces the no-parking distance from stop signs and corners from 30 feet to 20 feet after a surge in tickets.
Updated on Nov. 10, 2026 in City Hall
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Richmond City Council approved a change reducing the no-parking distance from stop signs from 30 feet to 20 feet. The move follows a nearly 280% surge in parking tickets this year, almost entirely in the 2nd District.
Why it matters
The rule affects drivers across Richmond who park near intersections, and residents were split during public comment. Transportation officials had expressed concern that the change could make intersections less safe.
Richmond's 30-foot no-parking rule near stop signs has been reduced to 20 feet from street corners, a change that takes effect immediately. The city may still establish larger marked no-parking zones where needed.
The players
Richmond City Council
The elected legislative body of Richmond, Virginia, which approved the change to the parking distance rule.
Andy Boenau
Richmond's transportation director, who said the extra 10 feet gives drivers more time to see and react to stop signs.
The details
Under the new rule, parking is generally prohibited within 20 feet of a street corner, down from the previous 30-foot ban. Public works officials must submit an implementation plan within 60 days.
Timeline
2026: Enforcement of the 30-foot rule triggered a nearly 280% ticket surge.
November 10, 2026: City Council approved the 20-foot parking rule change.
Within 60 days: Public works submits its implementation plan.
Within six months: Public works submits a follow-up report.
Political Context
Supporters argue the change aligns Richmond with the standard used by neighboring Virginia counties. Opponents and transportation officials have raised concerns that shorter no-parking zones could reduce intersection visibility and safety.
Drivers who park between 20 and 30 feet from a stop sign or corner will no longer risk a ticket under the old rule. Residents in the 2nd District, including Fan, Jackson Ward and Scott's Addition, are most likely to notice the change.
The takeaway
Drivers should check local signage and curb markings, since larger no-parking zones can still be posted where the city deems them necessary.
What happens next
Public works officials must submit an implementation plan within 60 days and a follow-up report within six months of the vote.
Further reading
For more on local decisions like this, see the City Hall coverage of Richmond government.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Axios.
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