Can blue parking spaces be used for long-term parking?
3 Answers
Blue parking spaces may not necessarily allow long-term parking. There are usually signs next to the parking spaces indicating the free parking periods, which vary depending on the specific location as there is no unified regulation. There are three types of parking space markings: blue, white, and yellow. Blue represents free parking spaces, white represents paid parking spaces (some of which may be free at night), and yellow represents special vehicle parking spaces (such as fire trucks). Parking spaces with yellow markings usually allow temporary parking but strictly prohibit long-term parking. Relevant regulations: Blue parking spaces indicate free motor vehicle or non-motor vehicle parking spaces, marked with free parking lines. If the blue marking is dashed, it only allows limited-time free parking. Only solid blue lines indicate long-term free parking. It is important to note that even if the marking is a solid blue line, it is best not to park for more than one day to avoid receiving a ticket.
Last time I saw a blue parking space in the old town and thought it was free to park indefinitely. But when I came back from work, I found a ticket on my car. Blue-marked spaces are generally free public parking zones, but whether you can park for a long time depends on accompanying signs. Some places have time limits like two hours or no parking after 9 PM. Exceeding these counts as illegal parking, and the police will issue a ticket directly. With limited parking in the city, these spots are the most likely to be monitored. My advice is to always look around for any signs indicating time restrictions before parking. Even if there are no signs, don’t take chances. It’s best to check local regulations in advance or use a navigation app that shows parking rules. If you need long-term parking, a paid parking lot is a safer bet to avoid getting towed.
After years of driving, I've figured out that while blue parking spaces are free, they come with risks. There are two types: those with time limits and those without. Most along main city roads have signs specifying rules, like allowing three-hour parking from 7 AM to 7 PM—exceed that and you'll get a ticket. Those on small roads or in older neighborhoods might not have signs, but if someone reports you or patrols notice you've parked too long, you'll still face penalties. I always remind myself not to get greedy—these spots are meant for short errands. Want to park long-term? No chance! To stay safe, I always check how long I can park before running errands, or just pay for a spot for peace of mind. With city enforcement getting stricter, saving a few hundred on parking only to get fined hundreds more just isn't worth it.
