Visitors driving into NYC should be well aware of Alternate Side Parking (ASP) regulations. No driver needs the hassle and expense of a parking ticket- they are not getting cheaper- or have to retrieve a car that has been towed. Alternate Side Parking regulations were put into effect to allow for street cleaning but inadvertently catches visitors and New Yorkers unaware and adds money to the city’s coffers.
Know everything about ASP to comply with the regulations.
How do you know what parking sign applies to ASP?
A sign with the letter “P” that include a broom running through it, denote an ASP sign and specific times for street cleaning. See below for a picture of the ASP sign. Follow posted signs when in doubt of a suspension due to construction, weather, emergencies or a holiday.
How do you know when ASP will be suspended for emergencies and weather-related conditions?
You can’t just check the calendar and the city does not have a magic eight ball for weather. As a visitor, you can stay abreast by checking the news on local television and radio channels as these outlets cover alternate parking rules suspensions. For the tech-savvy, consider downloading the 311 Mobile App for automatic updates impacting ASP status.
Did you know that there are unusual periods when ASP is not in effect?
February 8th, is the next date that ASP will be suspended. Keep your cars where you like without worrying about a specific time or date. Why February 8th? It’s the Asian Lunar New Year. During many holidays, not always well-known, the ASP will suspend the regulations. Do not disregard other parking regulations and metered parking. Such rules remain in effect on most non-major legal holidays. Get the breakdown and printout the calendar for ASP suspensions in 2016. Keep your car where it is for observances for the Solemnity of Ascension and Eid al-Adha.
Can you ever ignore the ASP regulations?
Yes. ASP is not applied on Sundays. Visitors need not follow the ASP sign on this day or have to pay the meter. Other parking signs for other regulations may still be in effect. Be aware of signs that specifically include Sundays or are in effect every day of the week.
Is there a map for Alternate Side Parking?
Yes. The city maintains a map of all parking regulations at http://www.nycdot.info/. There is also this user-friendly map maintained by NYCparklife.com to see if alternate street parking rules are in effect in your neighborhood.
NYC is an exciting place to explore but can be confusing for first time visitors. Common misconceptions include that when ASP is suspended, so are No Standing Anytime and other no-parking zone regulations. Enjoy your stay and avoid such mistakes.
