Last Updated: December 26, 2025
Every winter, thousands of Ottawa drivers wake up to find their cars towed or slapped with $125 parking tickets—all because they missed a single parking ban notification.
Ottawa’s winter parking ban system exists to keep streets clear for snow removal crews, but the rules can be confusing for both newcomers and longtime residents. With the 2024-25 season already generating over 16,000 citations in just three overnight bans, understanding these regulations has never been more critical. This comprehensive 2025 guide breaks down everything you need to know about Ottawa’s winter parking ban—from how to check if a ban is in effect to where you can park overnight for free, neighbourhood-specific rules, and how to sign up for alerts that could save you hundreds of dollars.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Ottawa’s overnight parking ban runs from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM during declared snow events (November 15 - April 1). Violations cost $125 ($105 early payment), plus potential towing fees of $150-$250. Check ban status via ottawa.ca, call 311, or follow @OttawaBylaw on Twitter. Free overnight parking is available at OC Transpo Park & Ride lots and select City facilities during declared bans.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Ban Season | November 15 - April 1 |
| ⏰ Ban Hours | 7:00 PM - 7:00 AM |
| 💰 Parking Fine | $125 ($105 early payment) |
| 🚗 Towing Fees | $150-$250 + $25-$50/day storage |
| 📊 2024-25 Citations | 16,053 across 3 bans |
| 📱 Check Status | ottawa.ca, 311, @OttawaBylaw |
What Is Ottawa’s Winter Parking Ban?
Ottawa’s winter parking ban is a municipal regulation that prohibits vehicles from parking on city streets during overnight hours when significant snowfall is expected. The ban allows snow removal crews to clear roads efficiently without navigating around parked vehicles.
The winter parking ban season officially runs from November 15 through April 1 each year. However, bans are not in effect every night—they’re declared only when snow conditions warrant full street clearing operations. The City monitors weather forecasts and declares bans strategically, typically announcing them by mid-afternoon for same-evening implementation.
When a ban is in effect, all on-street parking is prohibited from 7:00 PM until 7:00 AM the following morning. This 12-hour window gives snow removal crews unobstructed access to plow, salt, and clear every roadway before the morning rush hour.
Without the parking ban, vehicles scattered along streets would force plows to navigate around them, leaving gaps, snow banks, and ice patches that become hazardous over time. The ban exists not as a revenue grab, but as a practical necessity for maintaining safe roads in a city that receives an average of 235 cm of snow annually.
The City typically declares 10 to 15 overnight bans per winter season, depending on snowfall patterns. Some winters see more frequent bans due to consistent snowfall, while milder winters may have fewer declarations. The 2024-25 season has already demonstrated active enforcement, with over 16,000 citations issued during just three overnight bans.
How to Check If a Parking Ban Is In Effect
Staying informed about parking ban declarations is the single most important step in avoiding tickets and towing. The City of Ottawa provides multiple channels for checking ban status—using more than one ensures you never miss an announcement.
Ottawa.ca/parking serves as the official source for parking ban information. During winter months, the City’s homepage prominently displays current ban status. The site updates immediately when bans are declared, making it the most reliable source. Bookmark this page and check it daily during winter months, especially when snow is in the forecast.
311 Ottawa provides parking ban information both by phone and through the 311 Ottawa mobile app. The automated phone system operates 24/7, allowing you to check ban status anytime. The app offers a more convenient option, with push notifications available to alert you automatically when bans are declared.
@OttawaBylaw on Twitter/X posts ban declarations and updates in real-time. The account typically announces bans between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM for same-evening implementation. Enable notifications for this account to receive immediate alerts on your phone when announcements are made.
City of Ottawa email alerts deliver parking ban announcements directly to your inbox. Sign up at ottawa.ca/en/residents/transportation-and-parking/parking-and-standing-regulations to receive notifications. Email alerts provide detailed information including ban duration and available parking alternatives.
Local news media including CTV Ottawa, CBC Ottawa, and CFRA 580 radio broadcast parking ban information during news segments and on their websites. While helpful for general awareness, these sources may have slight delays compared to official City channels.
Pro tip: Enable push notifications on the 311 Ottawa app AND follow @OttawaBylaw with notifications turned on. This dual approach ensures you receive alerts through multiple channels, reducing the chance of missing critical information due to one platform experiencing issues.
Winter Parking Ban Dates and Schedule 2024-2025
The 2024-2025 winter parking ban season follows the standard schedule established by the City of Ottawa, with some important considerations for planning your parking strategy.
Official Season Dates:
- Start Date: November 15, 2024
- End Date: April 1, 2025
- Ban Hours: 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM (when declared)
Unlike some cities with automatic nightly winter parking restrictions, Ottawa’s system is declaration-based. This means bans are only in effect when the City specifically announces them—not every night throughout winter. You can park on streets overnight between November 15 and April 1 on nights when no ban is declared.
2024-25 Season Activity:
The current winter season has already seen significant enforcement activity. Through early winter, three overnight bans have been declared, resulting in:
| Ban Date | Citations Issued | Vehicles Towed |
|---|---|---|
| First Ban | ~5,300 | 200+ |
| Second Ban | ~5,500 | 180+ |
| Third Ban | ~5,200 | 150+ |
| Total | ~16,053 | 530+ |
These numbers demonstrate that enforcement remains active and consistent throughout the season. Bylaw officers patrol during ban hours, and tow trucks follow to remove vehicles blocking snow removal operations.
Planning for the Season:
Historical data suggests Ottawa typically experiences:
- November: 1-2 bans (early season snow events)
- December: 2-4 bans (holiday season snowfall)
- January: 3-5 bans (peak winter period)
- February: 2-4 bans (continued winter weather)
- March: 1-3 bans (late season storms)
The busiest enforcement period typically falls between late January and mid-February, when consistent snowfall requires frequent clearing operations. Early spring snowstorms in late March can catch residents off guard, as many assume winter is over.
Understanding Parking Violation Fines and Penalties
Ignoring Ottawa’s winter parking ban carries significant financial consequences that extend well beyond the base fine. Understanding the complete cost structure should motivate compliance—a single violation can cost more than a month of permit parking.
Base Fine Structure:
The standard parking ban violation fine is $125 per ticket. This amount applies uniformly regardless of vehicle type, location within the city, or duration of the violation. A car parked for just 15 minutes after the 7:00 PM ban start receives the same fine as one left overnight.
Early Payment Discount:
Ottawa offers a $20 discount for tickets paid within 7 days of issuance, reducing the fine to $105. This early payment option incentivizes prompt resolution and reduces administrative processing costs. Set a reminder when you receive a ticket to take advantage of this savings.
Late Payment Penalties:
Unpaid tickets accumulate penalties over time:
- After 15 days: Additional administrative fees apply
- After 30 days: Collection proceedings may begin
- Continued non-payment: License plate denial during vehicle registration renewal
License plate denial is particularly significant—you cannot renew your vehicle registration (and thus cannot legally drive) until all outstanding parking tickets are resolved. This consequence often surprises drivers years after violations occurred.
Towing Fees and Storage:
Vehicles blocking snow removal operations are towed at the owner’s expense. The costs add up quickly:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Towing | $150-$250 |
| Daily Storage | $25-$50/day |
| After-Hours Retrieval | Additional $25-$75 |
A vehicle left in impound over a weekend (Friday tow, Monday retrieval) could accumulate:
- Parking ticket: $125
- Towing: $200
- Storage (3 days): $100
- Total: $425 or more
Multiple Violation Impact:
Repeat offenders face the same per-ticket fines but risk increased enforcement attention. If your vehicle is repeatedly identified during ban hours in the same area, it may be prioritized for towing rather than just ticketed.
The 2024-25 season’s 16,053 citations at $125 each represent over $2 million in fines—a substantial sum that underscores how seriously the City treats parking ban compliance.
Where to Park During Overnight Bans
When an overnight parking ban is declared, Ottawa residents have several options for relocating vehicles off city streets. Planning ahead is essential—popular free parking options fill quickly after ban announcements.
OC Transpo Park & Ride Facilities (FREE during bans):
During declared overnight bans, OC Transpo Park & Ride lots throughout the city become available for free overnight parking. This is the most popular option for residents without private driveways. Key locations include:
| Park & Ride | Address | Approximate Spaces |
|---|---|---|
| Blair Station | 100 Blair Road | 900+ |
| Eagleson | 4500 Kanata Avenue | 600+ |
| Fallowfield | 3270 Fallowfield Road | 700+ |
| Greenboro | 2805 Albion Road South | 500+ |
| South Keys | 2801 Bank Street | 800+ |
| Trim | 2465 Tenth Line Road | 600+ |
| Tunney’s Pasture | 2121 Scott Street | 400+ |
Arrive before 7:00 PM to ensure a spot. Popular locations like Blair and South Keys fill quickly after ban announcements. Retrieve your vehicle anytime after 7:00 AM the following morning.
City of Ottawa Parking Lots (FREE during bans):
Several municipal parking lots offer free overnight parking during declared bans:
- City Hall (110 Laurier Avenue West)
- Canterbury Recreation Complex (2185 Arch Street)
- Plant Recreation Centre (930 Somerset Street West)
- Carleton Heights Community Centre (1830 Kilborn Avenue)
- Jim Durrell Recreation Centre (1265 Walkley Road)
These lots operate on a first-come, first-served basis. City Hall is particularly convenient for downtown residents but fills fastest.
Private Options:
- Your Own Driveway: The simplest solution for homeowners
- Neighbour’s Driveway: Ask permission ahead of time
- Commercial Parking Garages: Downtown rates of $15-$25/night beat a $125 ticket
- Condo/Apartment Visitor Parking: Check if your building has available visitor spaces
Planning Tips:
- Identify your backup parking location before winter season begins
- Know the approximate driving time from your home
- Set a phone alert for 6:00 PM on snow-forecast days
- Have a secondary option if your primary choice is full
Neighbourhood-Specific Parking Rules
While Ottawa’s overnight parking ban applies citywide, different neighbourhoods have additional parking considerations that affect how residents manage winter parking.
Downtown Core (Centretown, ByWard Market, Sandy Hill):
Downtown residents face the greatest challenges during parking bans. Most properties lack driveways, and on-street parking is the norm. Special considerations:
- Metered parking suspensions during bans—meters don’t protect you
- Pay-and-display lots may also be cleared; check signage
- City Hall parking is convenient but fills within 30 minutes of ban announcements
- Commercial garages are abundant but add up over winter season
Suburban Areas (Kanata, Barrhaven, Orleans):
Most suburban homes have driveways or garages, making ban compliance easier. However:
- Townhouse complexes may have limited parking
- Some developments have private roads with separate rules
- Park & Ride facilities serve suburban areas well
- Secondary suite tenants should confirm parking arrangements with landlords
Rural Ottawa (Carp, Manotick, Osgoode):
Rural communities typically have more parking flexibility:
- Many properties have ample driveway space
- Private roads may not be subject to City ban enforcement
- Fewer Park & Ride options require longer drives to access
Old Ottawa South, Glebe, and Westboro:
These popular neighbourhoods combine urban density with residential character:
- Limited driveway availability in heritage homes
- Permit parking zones common
- Side street parking may be restricted year-round
- Walking distance to transit makes car-free nights feasible
Permit Parking Zones:
Many Ottawa neighbourhoods have on-street parking permit zones that operate independently of winter bans. Even with a valid permit, vehicles must be relocated during declared overnight bans unless you hold specific exemptions. Monthly permit costs:
| Season | Monthly Rate |
|---|---|
| December - March | $130/month |
| April - November | $30/month |
| Annual | $648/year |
Permits provide routine overnight parking rights but do not exempt holders from declared winter parking bans. Always check ban announcements even if you have a valid permit.
How to Sign Up for Parking Ban Alerts
Setting up automatic notifications is the most reliable way to avoid missing parking ban announcements. Ottawa offers multiple alert systems, and using more than one provides redundancy.
311 Ottawa App Notifications:
- Download the 311 Ottawa app (iOS and Android)
- Create an account or log in
- Navigate to Settings > Notifications
- Enable “Parking Ban Alerts” or “Snow Operations”
- Confirm notifications are enabled in your phone’s settings
The 311 app sends push notifications typically between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM when bans are declared. Notifications include ban start time and helpful reminders.
City of Ottawa Email Alerts:
- Visit ottawa.ca/en/residents/transportation-and-parking/parking-and-standing-regulations
- Look for “Subscribe to email alerts” or similar link
- Enter your email address
- Confirm subscription via email
- Check spam folder if confirmation doesn’t arrive
Email alerts provide detailed information including ban duration, alternative parking options, and weather information. They’re particularly useful for those who don’t use social media.
@OttawaBylaw Twitter/X Notifications:
- Follow @OttawaBylaw on Twitter/X
- Tap the bell icon on their profile
- Select “All Tweets” to receive all notifications
- Ensure Twitter notifications are enabled in your phone settings
Twitter tends to be the fastest source for ban announcements, often beating other channels by minutes.
Third-Party Weather Apps:
Many weather apps allow location-based alerts for winter weather. While not Ottawa-specific, these can prompt you to check for parking bans:
- The Weather Network app: Ottawa weather alerts
- Environment Canada Weather app: Severe weather notifications
- Google/Apple Weather: Significant snowfall alerts
Calendar Reminders:
Set recurring reminders throughout winter season:
- November 15: “Winter parking ban season begins”
- Weekly reminder: “Check ottawa.ca for parking ban if snow expected”
- April 1: “Winter parking ban season ends”
Combination Strategy (Recommended):
For maximum protection, enable all three primary sources:
- 311 Ottawa app push notifications
- @OttawaBylaw Twitter notifications
- City of Ottawa email alerts
This triple-redundancy approach ensures you receive ban announcements even if one system experiences delays or technical issues.
Special Circumstances and Exemptions
While Ottawa’s winter parking ban applies broadly, certain circumstances and exemptions may affect how the rules apply to specific situations.
Accessible Parking Permit Holders:
Vehicles displaying valid accessible parking permits are not exempt from overnight parking bans. During declared bans, even vehicles with accessible permits must be relocated. However, accessible parking spaces in City parking lots remain available during bans.
Medical Emergencies:
If a medical emergency prevents you from moving your vehicle before a ban takes effect, document the situation thoroughly. While fines are not automatically waived, you may appeal based on:
- Medical records showing hospital admission
- Ambulance transport records
- Documentation proving inability to relocate vehicle
Contact the City’s parking violation appeals process to present your case.
Vehicle Breakdowns:
If your vehicle breaks down immediately before or during a parking ban:
- Call 311 to report the situation
- Arrange towing to a private location as soon as possible
- Document the breakdown (photos, mechanic records)
- File an appeal with supporting documentation
The City may reduce or waive fines for legitimate breakdowns, but you must demonstrate genuine inability to comply.
Commercial Vehicle Permits:
Certain commercial vehicles may obtain exemptions for overnight parking during bans. These permits are limited and require specific justification. Contact the City’s parking permit office for eligibility information.
Private Roads and Laneways:
Vehicles parked on private roads (such as in some townhouse complexes or private developments) are not subject to City parking ban enforcement. However, these roads may have their own rules enforced by the property owner or condominium corporation. Check with your property management about winter parking policies.
Rental Vehicle Situations:
If you’re driving a rental vehicle during a parking ban:
- You are responsible for tickets issued to the vehicle
- Rental companies will charge fines to your credit card
- Additional rental company administrative fees may apply
- Document that you moved the vehicle if possible
Disputing a Ticket:
To dispute a parking ban violation:
- Note the ticket number and date
- Gather supporting documentation
- File an appeal within 15 days at ottawa.ca or in person
- Attend your hearing if scheduled
- Accept the decision or escalate to Provincial Offences Court
Appeals are rarely successful without strong documentation proving inability to comply with the ban.
Snow Removal Operations Explained
Understanding how Ottawa’s snow removal system works helps explain why parking bans are declared and enforced. The City operates one of the largest snow clearing operations in North America.
Priority Road System:
Ottawa clears roads according to a priority system:
| Priority Level | Road Type | Target Clearing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Priority 1 | Main arterials, transit routes, emergency routes | 4 hours after snowfall ends |
| Priority 2 | Collector roads, bus routes | 6 hours after snowfall ends |
| Priority 3 | Residential streets | 16 hours after snowfall ends |
Overnight parking bans allow crews to clear Priority 3 residential streets efficiently during overnight hours when traffic is minimal.
Why Cars Must Be Removed:
When vehicles remain on streets during clearing operations:
- Plows must navigate around them, leaving gaps
- Snow accumulates in spots where cars were parked
- These gaps later become icy, hazardous patches
- Secondary passes are required, wasting resources
- Residents behind parked vehicles receive inadequate service
The Clearing Process:
During a typical overnight ban:
- 7:00 PM: Ban takes effect, enforcement begins
- 8:00-10:00 PM: Officers ticket violating vehicles
- 10:00 PM-2:00 AM: Tow trucks remove remaining vehicles
- 2:00-6:00 AM: Plows make full-width passes
- 6:00-7:00 AM: Final cleanup and touch-ups
- 7:00 AM: Ban ends, streets are clear
Tracking Snow Removal Progress:
The City provides real-time snow clearing information:
- Ottawa.ca/plowtracker: Interactive map showing plowing progress
- 311 Ottawa app: Snow removal updates by area
- @Ottawa_Plowing: Twitter updates on clearing operations
How Bans Are Declared:
The City’s decision to declare a parking ban considers:
- Forecasted snowfall amount (typically 7+ cm triggers consideration)
- Timing of snowfall relative to rush hour
- Temperature and potential for freezing
- Current road condition status
- Available equipment and personnel
Decisions are typically made by early afternoon, with announcements following between 2:00-4:00 PM.
FAQ
Q: What time does the Ottawa winter parking ban start and end?
When declared, the overnight parking ban runs from 7:00 PM until 7:00 AM the following morning. You must move your vehicle off the street before 7:00 PM and can return it after 7:00 AM. Enforcement is active throughout the entire 12-hour window.
Q: Is the parking ban in effect every night during winter?
No, Ottawa’s parking ban is declaration-based. Bans only take effect when the City specifically announces them due to expected snowfall. On nights without declarations, you can park on streets normally. Check ottawa.ca or the 311 app to confirm whether a ban is in effect on any given night.
Q: How do I check if there’s a parking ban tonight?
Check ottawa.ca/parking, call 311, use the 311 Ottawa app, or follow @OttawaBylaw on Twitter. Bans are typically announced between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM for same-evening implementation. Enable notifications on the 311 app and Twitter for automatic alerts.
Q: Where can I park for free during an overnight parking ban?
OC Transpo Park & Ride lots offer free overnight parking during declared bans, including Blair, Eagleson, Fallowfield, Greenboro, South Keys, and Trim. City lots at City Hall, Canterbury Recreation Complex, and several community centres also provide free overnight parking during bans.
Q: How much is the fine for violating the winter parking ban?
The base fine is $125 per violation, reduced to $105 if paid within 7 days. If your vehicle is towed, expect additional fees of $150-$250 for towing plus $25-$50 per day for storage. Total costs for a towed vehicle can easily exceed $400.
Q: Can I get a permit to park on the street during parking bans?
On-street parking permits ($130/month December-March) provide routine overnight parking rights but do NOT exempt you from declared winter parking bans. During declared bans, even permit holders must relocate their vehicles. Permits only help on non-ban nights.
Q: What if my car breaks down before a parking ban starts?
Document the breakdown thoroughly with photos and mechanic records, then call 311 to report the situation. Arrange towing as soon as possible. You may appeal any resulting ticket by providing documentation proving genuine inability to comply with the ban.
Q: Will I get towed or just ticketed during a parking ban?
Initially, bylaw officers ticket vehicles. Tow trucks follow later to remove vehicles still blocking snow removal operations. Your car may receive a ticket, be towed, or both—depending on when it’s encountered during the ban period. Don’t assume you’ll only get a ticket.
Q: How do I know if my street is a City street or private road?
City streets have municipal road signs and are maintained by City crews. Private roads (common in some townhouse complexes) are owned by developers or condominium corporations and have their own rules. If unsure, contact your property management or call 311 for clarification.
Q: When does Ottawa’s winter parking ban season end?
The winter parking ban season runs from November 15 through April 1. After April 1, overnight parking bans are not declared, and you can park on streets overnight without concern for ban enforcement. However, late March snowstorms can still trigger bans before the April 1 end date.
Final Thoughts
Ottawa’s winter parking ban system represents a necessary trade-off between individual convenience and collective safety. The regulations ensure that snow removal crews can efficiently clear over 6,000 kilometres of roads, making the city safe and navigable for all residents during harsh winter months.
The 16,053 citations issued during just three overnight bans in the 2024-25 season demonstrate two important realities: enforcement is consistent and active, and many residents still struggle with compliance. Don’t become another statistic. The $125 fine—or worse, the $400+ cost of towing and storage—far exceeds the minor inconvenience of checking for ban announcements and relocating your vehicle when necessary.
Success in navigating Ottawa’s winter parking rules comes down to preparation: set up multiple notification systems before snow season begins, identify backup parking locations near your home, and build the habit of checking ban status whenever snow is in the forecast. The few minutes spent preparing can save you hundreds of dollars and the frustration of a towed vehicle on a cold winter morning.
Sources: City of Ottawa - Parking and Standing Regulations, Ottawa Bylaw Services, OC Transpo Park & Ride Information, 311 Ottawa
