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SidewalkSnitch / Rulebook / Parking / NYPD-PRK-006
Parking — Sidewalk Parking
Law
Parking · NYC DOT / NYPD · 34 RCNY §4-08(e)(3); NY VTL §1203
Parking — Sidewalk Parking is enforced by NYC DOT / NYPD under 34 RCNY §4-08(e)(3); NY VTL §1203. Severity default: High.
The regulation
No person shall stop, stand, or park a vehicle on any sidewalk, in whole or in part. Vehicles with any wheel on the sidewalk are in violation.
What to photograph
- car, van, or truck with one or more wheels up on the sidewalk
- vehicle entirely parked on the sidewalk outside a building
- motorcycle, scooter, or moped parked on the sidewalk
- commercial vehicle parked on sidewalk for loading
How to file a complaint
- Photograph the vehicle, plate, and violation context (signs, hydrant, crosswalk).
- Note the address and time; parking complaints are location- and time-sensitive.
- File at portal.311.nyc.gov under Parking, or call 311.
- Attach your photo; include plate, color, and make if the plate is obscured.
- Save your Service Request Number to track NYPD Traffic or DOT response.
Official channel: portal.311.nyc.gov or dial 311. Agency: NYC DOT / NYPD.
Penalties & fines
Parking summons fines typically range from $35–$515 depending on violation type (2026 NYC Traffic Rules schedule). Towing may apply for blocking hydrants, driveways, or bus stops.
What happens after you file
311 routes parking complaints to NYPD Traffic Enforcement or DOT. If the vehicle is still present, an agent may issue a summons. If gone, the complaint is logged to the location history.
SidewalkSnitch supports photo analysis for parking complaints.
Draft a filing in the appFAQ
Can I file anonymously?
311 requires contact information for follow-up. Your identity is not shared with the violator. SidewalkSnitch requires phone verification for filings.
Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?
We prepare the text. You file it on 311. Nothing goes to 311 unless you send it.