Parking Enforcement FAQs

Arlington County Police Department's Parking Service Aides are dedicated to ensuring equitable parking opportunities for all through enforcing parking regulations. Below, are answers to some frequently asked questions regarding parking enforcement regulations.

Abandoned Vehicles

What is considered an abandoned vehicle?

In accordance with Arlington County Code § 14.2-3, an abandoned vehicle is any motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer that is found on public streets or public grounds unattended by the owner or operator and: 

  • constitutes a danger or hazard to pedestrian or motor vehicle traffic 

  • parked in a temporary “no parking” zone in violation of County Code § 14.2-2.D 

  • parked at a car-sharing station in violation of County Code § 14.2-2.G 

  • left unattended more than ten (10) days 

A motor vehicle, trailer, or semitrailer is also considered abandoned if it lacks either a current license plate, a valid State inspection sticker, and it has been in a specific location for four (4) days without being moved.  

 

Commercial Vehicles

What is considered a commercial vehicle?

In accordance with Arlington County Code § 14.2-34, a commercial vehicle is defined as any of the following: 

  • any vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of 12,000 pounds or more. 

  • any vehicle designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including the driver. 

  • any vehicle designed to carry hazardous materials as defined in Virginia Code § 46.2-341.4.  

  • any trailer or semitrailer, regardless of if it is attached to another vehicle or not. 

  • any vehicle with three or more axles. 

 

Is a vehicle used for commercial purposes always considered a commercial vehicle?

If a vehicle is used for commercial purposes but does not fit the criteria defined in Virginia Code § 46.2-341.4, it is not considered a commercial vehicle for parking enforcement purposes.

 

Idling Vehicles

What is considered an idling vehicle?

In accordance with Virginia Code § 46.2-1071, an idling vehicle is any vehicle left unattended on any highway with the motor running.

 

Reporting Violations

How do I report parking violations?

To report an illegally parked vehicle, if the violation is currently in progress, call the Emergency Communications Center at 703-558-2222 so a parking service aide can be dispatched to investigate. 

To report ongoing parking and traffic issues in Arlington County, please submit a Transportation Safety Enforcement Request.  

 

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