Short answer: On a typical weekday like today (Thursday, December 4, 2025), alternate side parking is usually in effect across New York City, unless the City announces a suspension for a holiday or severe weather. Always confirm by checking the sign on your block and the latest city alert before you leave your car. 🚗🧹
Today’s status at a glance
Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025
Likely status: In effect (unless officially suspended).
What to do now: Read the posted street sign on your block. If the broom symbol and hours cover today, move your car during the stated times.
How alternate side parking works in NYC
Alternate side parking (ASP) is New York City’s street-cleaning rule. On scheduled days, you must move your car so sweepers can clean the curb. Signs show a broom symbol and specific days + hours (for example: “Mon & Thu 11:30am–1pm”).
During the posted window, you need to be off that side of the street. After the time ends, you can return to park. The rule varies block by block—always trust the sign right where you park.
Key takeaways for travelers
- Signs rule. The pole on your block is the final word—even if a neighbor says otherwise.
- No official grace period. Tickets can be issued the minute enforcement starts. Set an alarm ⏰.
- Sundays: ASP is suspended every Sunday. 🎉
- Holidays & storms: The City may suspend ASP for certain holidays or severe weather.
- Meters vs. ASP: When only ASP is suspended, parking meters can still be in effect. Bring quarters or use the app 💸.
How to confirm “today” in 30 seconds
- Check the sign on your exact block. Note the day and time window.
- Look for today’s suspensions via official city alerts or by calling local information services (311).
- Scan the street. If everyone on your side is leaving at the same time, it’s a hint ASP is active 😉.
Holiday and meter rules (quick guide)
Major legal holidays: Both ASP and meters are typically suspended. You can usually park without moving or paying the meter during posted hours.
Other legal/religious holidays: ASP is typically suspended, but meters often remain in effect. If you’re at a metered spot, pay during meter hours even when you don’t have to move for sweeping.
Tip: If you’re unsure which category a holiday falls into, assume meters still apply unless clearly stated otherwise.
Bad weather and special suspensions
NYC often suspends ASP during snowstorms, ice events, or major cleanups so cars can stay put and plows can work. ❄️ If conditions look rough, expect possible citywide suspension notices—still double-check before you relax.
Reading the sign like a local
- Two-day panels: Many blocks list two weekly days (e.g., Mon & Thu). You move on both days.
- One-day panels: Some neighborhoods only have one weekly cleaning day.
- Time window matters: You must be off that side for the entire window, not just when the sweeper passes.
- Pay attention to arrows. The arrow shows which side/segment the sign covers.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Trusting old info. Signs can change after construction or repaving. Recheck each time you park.
- Double-parking during ASP. It may look “normal,” but it’s still not allowed and can be ticketed 🚫.
- Leaving for five minutes. Enforcement is precise. If the window begins at 11:30am, be gone by 11:29am.
- Assuming all holidays are the same. Some suspend both ASP and meters; others only ASP.
Traveler tips to save time and stress
- Set calendar repeats. Add your block’s ASP days and hours to your phone with alerts 30 and 10 minutes ahead.
- Pick the “tomorrow-cleaned” side at night. If tomorrow isn’t your side’s cleaning day, you can usually sleep in 😴.
- Garage for storm weeks. When a storm’s coming or you’ll be out all day, a garage can be cheaper than a ticket.
- Traveling with luggage? Aim for post-sweeping return to minimize moves, or choose a hotel that offers on-site parking.
If you already got a ticket
Check the time, location, and photo evidence. If the sign was unclear, missing, or contradictory, you can contest. Keep photos of the pole, arrows, and the curb. Act quickly—deadlines apply.
Neighborhood nuances
Cleaning schedules vary. Some busy corridors have midday windows; quieter residential blocks may be morning or early afternoon. Expect tighter rules in commercial zones and near schools or hospitals.
Pro move for weekly visitors
Park on the side that was cleaned earlier today once the window ends. You’ll usually be safe there until the next cycle, reducing the chance you’ll need to move again soon.
FAQs
Is alternate side parking in effect today?
On most Thursdays like today, yes—unless the City announces a suspension for a holiday or weather. Confirm by checking your block’s sign and the latest city notice.
Do I have to pay the meter if ASP is suspended?
Often, yes. When only ASP is suspended, meter regulations can still apply. Major legal holidays commonly suspend both ASP and meters.
Is there any grace period at the start of ASP?
No official grace period. Enforcement can begin exactly at the posted start time.
Can I return as soon as the sweeper passes?
Legally, you must wait until the posted window ends, unless your sign explicitly allows earlier return.
Is double-parking allowed during ASP?
No. It might look common, but it’s still a violation and can be ticketed.
Are Sundays always safe?
ASP is suspended on Sundays citywide. Still check meter signs; some areas have other regulations.
What about snow days?
Severe weather can trigger citywide ASP suspensions. When storms hit, look for official alerts and plan accordingly. ❄️
How big are the fines?
Fines are significant and add up quickly. If you’re risk-averse or traveling with a tight schedule, a garage for a day or two can be cheaper than a ticket plus towing.
Conclusion
If you remember one thing, make it this: the sign on your block is the boss. On a regular Thursday like December 4, 2025, ASP is typically in effect, but holiday and weather suspensions happen. Check the sign, confirm any alerts, set a reminder, and you’ll park like a pro in New York City. 🚕🌆
