City of Milwaukee winter parking regulations begin today, December 1 and continue to March 1, 2009.

The following comes from permits and communications manager Cecilia Gilbert:

Most residential streets have alternate side night parking during this period. However, there are exceptions to this rule. Overnight parking is prohibited on major arterial streets and bus routes during this time period. These streets are not posted. In addition, some streets on the East Side and near South Side that allow overnight parking on both sides of the street will only allow alternate side night parking during the December to March time period. These streets are also not posted.  

Residents should also observe the posted parking regulations.  Many streets on the east side are posted "No Parking When Snow Falls 4 Inches or More."  Parking is allowed on both sides of the street, except when snow has accumulated on the street to the depth of 4 inches or more.  No parking is allowed on the side of the street where the sign is posted until the snow has been removed – day or night or at any time of the year.  Other streets are restricted to parking on a specific side of the street during the winter months.  These streets are posted with signs reading "No Parking" on one side of the street, either for the entire December to March time period or for a specific month.   

During a major snow fall, a "Snow Emergency" may be declared by the Commissioner of Public Works.  Snow emergencies are widely publicized on local radio and television stations.  During a declared "Snow Emergency", parking is prohibited where "Snow Route Tow-Away Zone" signs are posted.  Parking is permitted on such streets unless a snow emergency is declared.  Vehicles parked in violation of this sign will be towed at the owner’s expense.  There are no exceptions.  During a declared snow emergency night parking regulations are in effect from 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. 

The Department of Public Works wants to remind all City residents who park on the street to shovel out their vehicles and move them within a 24-hour period.  Citations will be issued for failure to comply with this City ordinance.