How long can you park in a blue dashed parking space?
3 Answers
Blue dashed parking spaces are time-limited free parking spots with specified parking durations. The free parking time periods are usually indicated on the road surface or signage. Parking spaces can be categorized into the following 3 types based on their colors: Yellow parking spaces: These are exclusive parking spots. Common yellow dedicated parking spaces include those for police use, epidemic prevention support, new energy vehicles, and emergency rescue vehicles. These spaces are marked with relevant text in their signs and markings and are also free parking spots. Other public vehicles should not occupy them. White parking spaces: These are paid parking spots and are the most common type of parking spaces, seen on almost every road. Among them, solid white lines indicate no time restrictions for parking, while dashed white lines indicate time-limited parking. The specific time limits are subject to the markings on the parking space. Green parking spaces: These are found in only a few cities, such as Nanning. They are time-limited free parking spots designed to meet short-term parking needs, such as shopping or running errands.
I recently noticed blue dashed parking spaces near my neighborhood, which are usually free temporary parking spots with time limits depending on the specific location. For example, at the place I parked last time, the roadside sign indicated a 30-minute limit, or else I might get a ticket. It's advisable to carefully check the signs before parking or download traffic apps like Baidu Maps to check the time limits in real-time. If you exceed the time limit, quickly move your car or find a nearby paid parking spot to avoid unnecessary fines. Additionally, rules vary between cities—in places like Beijing, such spots are often free for up to 30 minutes, while some smaller cities might be more lenient. But it's best not to take risks to avoid disrupting your daily travel plans.
As a parent driving my child to school, I often encounter these parking spots, and I always remind myself to set a phone alarm. The blue dashed lines usually allow short-term parking, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the roadside signs. I remember once forgetting the time and exceeding it by just 5 minutes, which resulted in a ticket—truly not worth the loss. It's advisable to first check the signs or ask nearby security guards to confirm the time limit. Following the rules not only saves money but also avoids the risk of congestion; if the pickup or drop-off requires more time, opting for a paid parking lot is safer and more reliable, ensuring the child can alight safely.
