Living In Oak Park -- Parking

Parking space is a scarce resource in the Village of Oak Park, since the community was fully developed by the 1930s long before the widespread dependence on automobiles. This means available space must be managed
through regulations intended to balance need with supply. In densely populated Oak Park – with a human population of 52,000-plus and an automobile population of at least 29,000 – the limited supply of parking must be managed, and that means regulation about where and how parking
is allowed, for how long and, in some cases, by whom. By managing the parking supply – most of which is on public property – the Village strives to help Oak Park residents, business owners visitors meet their parking needs while maintaining the historic character of the community.

Restrictions

Parking is generally prohibited on all streets from 2:30 - 6 a.m., seven days per week, year around, except when allowed by permit or pass. This overnight parking restriction dates back to the late 1920s. Cars bearing permits may park on streets in specifically designated areas near multifamily buildings, except in front of churches, schools and parks and on blocks where housing is more than 50 percent single family.

Other parking restrictions are determined by location within the Village, length of parking time and even weather. Multiple restrictions often exist in the same area, but apply only during specific times. Residents are urged to read the signs and comply accordingly.

The Village of Oak Park also has special parking rules that go into effect when it snows. When deemed necessary by the Public Works Director – typically after a two-inch snowfall – parking is banned on major streets posted as snow routes. If a snow emergency is called, parking is restricted on other streets to one side, depending on the date. Click here for details.

For more information about parking in Oak Park call 708.358.7275 or e-mail parking@oakpark.us. This e-mail address may not be used to contest a parking ticket. Click here for information on protesting a ticket.

"The people of Oak Park choose this community, not just as a place to live, but as a way of life ... Ours is a dynamic community that encourages the contributions of all citizens, regardless of race, gender, age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, religion, economic status, political affiliation or any of the other distinguishing characteristics that all too often divide people in society."

— Oak Park Diversity Statement

Download a copy of the complete text of Oak Park's Diversity Statement