Ann Arbor Parking Permits, Curb Loading & Encroachments

Transportation Michigan 4 Minutes Read · published March 01, 2026 Flag of Michigan

Ann Arbor, Michigan regulates on-street parking permits, curb loading zones and encroachments to keep streets safe and accessible. This guide explains where rules are set, who enforces them, how to apply for permits or report obstructions, and what to expect if you receive a notice or citation.

Permits, Curb Loading and Encroachments — What they cover

Typical municipal controls include residential and business parking permits, designated curb loading/unloading zones, and rules about structures or items placed in the public right-of-way (encroachments). Applications, time limits and eligibility criteria are administered by Parking Services and relevant city departments; official ordinance text is in the City Code. City Code[1]

  • Residential parking permits and business permits are used to control curb usage near homes and storefronts.
  • Curb loading zones set specific hours and durations for commercial loading and passenger drop-off.
  • Encroachments include signs, planters, stairways or structures that extend into the public right-of-way and usually require a license or permit.
Always confirm permit eligibility and limits with Parking Services before altering a curb or placing items in the right-of-way.

How to apply for parking permits and curb licenses

Applications and permit details for on-street parking and curb use are issued by the City of Ann Arbor Parking Services. The city publishes permit procedures and contact points on its Parking Permits page. Parking Permits[2]

  • Common application: Residential Parking Permit application (name and purpose vary by program).
  • Fees: specific permit fees and payment methods are listed on the Parking Services permit pages or the application form.
  • Deadlines: temporary loading permits are often issued by date/time and may require advance notice.
  • Submission: most permit applications are handled by Parking Services or the department noted on the application.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is carried out by City of Ann Arbor Parking Services, the city police or other designated enforcement officers; the City Code provides the controlling legal provisions. City Code[1]

  • Monetary fines: specific fine amounts for parking, curb loading violations or unpermitted encroachments are not specified on the cited city pages and must be confirmed in the City Code or current fee schedules.
  • Escalation: whether first, repeat or continuing offence fines are tiered is not specified on the cited page and depends on the ordinance and any administrative fee schedule.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: common remedies include removal orders for encroachments, license suspensions, and court actions for ongoing violations.
  • Enforcer and complaints: enforcement and inspections are coordinated through Parking Services and city enforcement divisions; to report violations contact Parking Services or the appropriate department listed below.
  • Appeals and review: appeal routes and time limits for citations or removal orders are set by ordinance or administrative rules; specific appeal periods are not specified on the cited pages and should be confirmed with the issuing department.
If you receive a notice, act promptly to learn appeal deadlines and avoid added penalties.

Applications & Forms

  • Residential or business parking permit application — see Parking Services for the current form and instructions. Parking Permits[2]
  • Fees and payment — listed on the permit page or on the printed application; if no fee table appears, fee amounts are not specified on the cited page.
Some curb encroachments require a formal right-of-way license even when no fee is listed on the public page.

Action Steps

  • Check the City Code for controlling ordinance text and definitions.[1]
  • Contact Parking Services to request permit forms, confirm fees and ask about time-limited loading zones.[2]
  • If you receive a violation, read the citation for appeal instructions and deadlines and file promptly.

FAQ

Do I need a permit to park on my street?
Permit requirements depend on the zone and program; consult Parking Services for eligibility and the application process.
How do I get a temporary curb loading zone?
Apply through Parking Services for temporary loading permits; required lead times and fees are listed on the permit page when available.
What happens if someone places items in the public right-of-way?
The city may require removal and can issue orders or fines under the municipal code; contact the appropriate city department to report obstructions.

How-To

  1. Identify whether your need is a residential permit, business permit, temporary loading zone or a right-of-way encroachment license.
  2. Download or request the correct application from Parking Services or the department responsible.
  3. Complete the form, attach required documentation and pay any fee listed on the official permit page.
  4. Submit the application to Parking Services or the listed office and retain proof of submission; follow up if you do not receive confirmation.

Key Takeaways

  • Permit and encroachment rules are set in the City Code and implemented by Parking Services or the designated department.
  • Confirm fees, forms and deadlines with Parking Services before placing anything in the public right-of-way.
  • Act quickly on citations to preserve appeal rights and limit escalation.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Ann Arbor Code of Ordinances
  2. [2] City of Ann Arbor Parking Permits

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