Meters and disabled placards
Do I have to pay the meter with a disabled placard?
Under state law, a vehicle displaying a Connecticut or other state's disability placard or plate may park where parking is legal without penalty, ignoring meter and posted time limits, if the person with a disability is driving or riding.
- The placard may not be displayed unless the person it was issued to is driving or a passenger.
- Applies to placards issued by Connecticut or by authorities of other states or countries.
- The parking must otherwise be legally permitted (no-parking zones still apply).
Confirmed from official sourceVaries by city: noVerified Nov 12, 2026
What the source says
“shall be allowed to park in an area where parking is legally permissible, for an unlimited period of time without penalty” (Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 14-253a(e) (Chapter 248))
Disabled parking placards
Who can get a disabled parking placard, and are other states' placards honored?
The DMV accepts applications from people who are blind or have disabilities, and from parents or guardians applying for them, with a valid license or ID. Placards from other states are recognized for the state's meter and time-limit privileges.
- Organizations that mainly transport people with disabilities can also apply.
- The placard must be used only when the person it was issued to is driving or riding.
Confirmed from official sourceVaries by city: noVerified Nov 12, 2026
What the source says
“shall accept applications and renewal applications for removable windshield placards from (1) any person who is blind” (Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 14-253a(b) (Chapter 248))
“or by authorities of other states or countries for the purpose of identifying vehicles permitted to utilize parking spaces” (Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 14-253a(e) (Chapter 248))
Time limits and overtime
How long can I stay in a time-limited space, and what happens if I overstay?
Time limits are set by each city, town or borough and posted on signs or meters. State law gives local traffic authorities the power to set them. Fine amounts and time limits vary by town.
- On state highways, the Office of the State Traffic Administration can also restrict parking.
- Check the posted sign or meter where you park for the limit that applies.
Partly confirmedVaries by city: yesVerified Nov 12, 2026
What the source says
“shall have power to prohibit, limit or restrict the parking of vehicles and to erect and maintain signs in each block” (Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 14-307 (Chapter 249))
Snow emergencies and street cleaning
When do I have to move my car for snow or street cleaning?
We found no statewide rule; towns and cities decide. Example city: Bridgeport's code lets the mayor declare alternate-side-of-the-street parking during snow or ice, and vehicles on the wrong side can be ticketed or towed.
- Bridgeport's page says you may park on the even-numbered side from 7 a.m. on an even date to 7 a.m. the next day, and the odd-numbered side on odd dates.
- Bridgeport says the usual all-night parking restrictions are suspended while this applies.
- This is one city's rule, not a Connecticut rule; check your own town.
Partly confirmedVaries by city: yesVerified Nov 12, 2026
What the source says
“as declared by the mayor, alternate side of the street parking shall take effect” (Example city: Bridgeport - Alternate Side of Street Parking Ordinance)
Overnight parking and permits
Can I park on the street overnight?
We could not confirm a statewide rule on overnight street parking or permits from an official state source. Cities and towns set these rules, so check with your municipality.
Not confirmed: check local rulesVaries by city: yesVerified Nov 12, 2026
Towing and fines
What can I be fined or towed for, and how do I get my car back?
State law bars parking within 10 feet of a hydrant or blocking a driveway (infractions). Misusing accessible parking carries a $250 first fine. Cars towed from private lots are released on proof of registration and payment of towing and storage.
- Towing from private property: the vehicle must be stored in a secured lot open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday and reasonably available on weekends and holidays.
- You have the right to inspect the vehicle before accepting its return, and must get an itemized receipt.
- Fines for ordinary meter and time-limit tickets and for city-ordered tows are set locally.
Partly confirmedVaries by city: yesVerified Nov 12, 2026
What the source says
“No vehicle shall be permitted to remain stationary within ten feet of any fire hydrant” (Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 14-251 (Chapter 248))
“for a first violation, be subject to a fine of two hundred fifty dollars” (Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 14-253a(l) (Chapter 248))
“presents proof of registration and pays the costs of towing or removal and of storage” (Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 14-145b (Chapter 246))
Ask about parking rules
COMING SOONSoon you will be able to ask a question and get an answer from these verified rules, with the source.
General information, not legal advice. Local signs and ordinances always apply.
