Coon Rapids reminds residents: winter parking rules now in effect — what to know

COON RAPIDS, Minn.— The Coon Rapids Police Department has announced that the city’s winter parking restrictions are now in effect, running through April 1. The rules are designed to support efficient snow removal, keep streets safe for motorists, and ensure unimpeded access for emergency vehicles.

Key Winter Parking Rules

• Overnight Ban: From November 1 through April 1, parking on all public city streets is prohibited daily between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m.
• Snow Accumulation Rule: If three (3) inches or more of snow accumulate (or are forecast to), vehicles must be removed from the street — at any time, day or night — until the road has been fully plowed curb-to-curb.
• After Plowing: Once the street is cleared curb-to-curb, residents may resume parking; however, the overnight 2–6 a.m. ban remains in force for the duration of the winter season.

Why These Rules Matter

According to the city, vehicles that remain on the street during the overnight hours or after heavy snowfall can obstruct plow operations. That interference slows snow removal, increases risk for drivers and pedestrians, and may block access for emergency responders. City officials say keeping streets clear helps plows remove snow more efficiently on the first pass, reducing the need for re-plowing and minimizing disruptions.

Enforcement and Penalties

• Parking Citations: Vehicles in violation of the overnight ban or the three-inch snow rule may be ticketed.
• Towing: Cars that physically block snowplow operations or impede street clearance can be towed at the owner’s expense.

Enforcement is handled by local parking and police authorities, and residents are urged to comply to avoid fines or the inconvenience of towing.

Additional Resources & How to Stay Updated

• For the official winter parking rules, visit the City of Coon Rapids website — the city posts alerts, snow-removal updates, and detailed guidance on its Snow Removal page.
• To report snow-plow issues or request assistance, contact the Streets Division / Snowplow Hotline at (763) 755-2880 (select the “Snowplow” option), or use the city’s “Report It” feature on its municipal website.
• Follow the Coon Rapids Police Department on social media for real-time reminders and parking enforcement announcements.

The city thanks its residents for their cooperation with these winter parking regulations, noting that voluntary compliance significantly helps maintain safer and more navigable roads throughout the winter.

MinneapoliMedia