Knowing the meaning of different colored curb zones is an important part to being a responsible driver. And, as with all rules of the road, it’s vital that you not only know the curb zone laws, but follow them as well. If you park in front of a curb that you’re not allowed to park in front of, you may block access for other drivers who are entitled to that spot, most notably emergency vehicles. Perhaps just as importantly, illegally parking in a colored curb zone that you’re not allowed to be in can result in a hefty parking ticket, or worse, having your vehicle towed.
It can be hard to keep track of what the different curb colors mean, particularly if you’ve recently moved, because each state utilizes curbs and curb colors differently. Most drivers have to learn the curb zone laws in order to get their permit, but if you’re new to a state, you won’t be familiar with the local rules (or you may have forgotten the curb zone laws since getting your permit or license). To avoid being in someone’s way or paying a pricy fine, make sure that you know what each colored curb zone means in your state, so that you can use them safely, responsibly, and accurately.
The guide to colored curb zone laws in each state
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
To make sure that you avoid tickets and having your vehicle towed, always follow the colored curb zone laws. If you take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with your state’s curb laws, you’ll never find yourself confused about where you can and cannot park.