Secure Your Chicago Moving Truck Parking Permit

Moving in Chicago? The toughest part of moving day might be the curb in front of your building. You want your truck close, you want to avoid tickets, and you want to keep things friendly with neighbors. This guide shows you exactly how to reserve legal parking, which signs actually work, what it costs, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Let’s dive in.

Enforceable vs. courtesy moving signs

Only the City of Chicago can post enforceable temporary No Parking or Tow Zone signs for a residential move. Apply through the Chicago Department of Transportation’s online permit portal.

Most ward offices offer courtesy moving signs as a neighborhood favor. These are helpful for alerting neighbors, but they are not enforceable for ticketing or towing. Ward office rules vary, and many ask you to post signs 48 to 72 hours in advance. See an example of ward guidance on Alderman Martin’s site.

Step-by-step: Reserve an enforceable curb space

1) Decide whether you need enforcement

If you need uninterrupted space for a moving truck and want the ability to ticket or tow unauthorized vehicles, apply for a CDOT temporary no‑parking or tow zone permit through the permit portal. If you only want to notify neighbors and can be flexible, ask your ward office for courtesy signs.

2) Choose who will apply

Many professional movers submit the CDOT permit on your behalf once you authorize them. If you are handling the move yourself, you can apply directly in the CDOT portal. Courtesy signs come from your alderman’s office.

3) Start early: timeline to apply and post

• Courtesy signs: Most wards ask you to post at least 48 hours before your move. Some say 24 to 72 hours. See the 44th Ward example.
• CDOT permits: Allow at least 72 hours for processing and posting. Earlier is better, especially in busy seasons. Apply via the CDOT portal.

4) Know the fees and possible extras

Ward courtesy signs are often free. Enforceable CDOT moving permits are commonly referenced around $25 on ward pages, but extra charges can apply for metered spaces or commercial districts. Review fees during application and see examples in the 49th Ward FAQs.

5) Posting and day-of enforcement

Follow CDOT instructions for sign placement, and make sure signs are clearly visible before the permit start time. If an unauthorized vehicle is in your permitted area during your time window, follow the permit instructions or call 311 to request enforcement. Courtesy signs do not allow ticketing or towing.

6) After the move

Remove courtesy signs and any tape or string. For CDOT permits, follow any closeout steps listed on the permit. Some signs are collected by the city after the permitted period. See timing guidance in the 44th Ward instructions.

Rules that override your moving signs

Street cleaning, snow bans, and special events

Street-cleaning schedules, winter parking bans, and temporary event perimeters can override your moving signage. You can still be ticketed if you park in violation of a higher-priority rule. Review seasonal and ticketing guidance from the Department of Finance’s City sticker and violations FAQ and check local postings on your block before moving day.

Loading zones and meter rules

Commercial loading zones have specific rules about who may use them. A separate non-commercial loading zone permit exists for passenger-plate vehicles in certain situations. If your planned space includes meters or a paybox, you may need to reimburse lost meter revenue. See details in the city’s Commercial Loading Zone information.

PODs and containers: What is allowed

Chicago’s municipal code generally prohibits storing personal property on the public way. That is why PODs or portable storage containers are not allowed on streets, sidewalks, parkways, or alleys without specific permission. Place containers on private property or on a trailer only if permitted. Review the code section on storage of goods on public ways.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Waiting too long to apply, which risks no signage on moving day.
• Assuming courtesy signs are enforceable. They are not.
• Overlooking street cleaning, winter bans, or event restrictions on your block.
• Blocking metered spaces without addressing meter requirements.
• Using a loading zone without the correct vehicle or permit.

Quick checklist for moving week

• Confirm your moving date and truck size.
• Decide: enforceable CDOT permit or ward courtesy signs.
• Apply in the CDOT portal or request ward signs.
• Post signs on time: CDOT and ward timelines differ.
• Check street cleaning, winter bans, and local event notices.
• Plan a backup: off-street garage or private lot if curb space is tight.
• Keep the permit handy on moving day and call 311 if enforcement is needed.

A quick note on larger closures

Big requests, like film shoots or large block uses, often require insurance that names the City of Chicago as an additional insured. Typical residential moves are simpler, but check your permit scope against city rules. See the city’s permit guidance for context, and the municipal code on temporary parking regulations and tow zones here.

When you plan ahead, reserve the right kind of signage, and double-check block rules, your moving truck gets the space it needs and your schedule stays on track. If your move is part of buying or selling in Chicago, connect with Rafi Sahakian for a process-driven plan that keeps your transition smooth from contract to keys.

FAQs

Do I need a permit for a moving truck in Chicago?

• If you want enforceable, exclusive curb space, yes. Apply for a CDOT temporary no‑parking or tow zone permit in the online portal. Courtesy ward signs are not enforceable.

How far in advance should I post moving signs in Chicago?

• Ward courtesy signs are typically posted 48 hours ahead, sometimes 24 to 72 hours. CDOT permits should be started at least 72 hours in advance. See the 44th Ward example.

How much does a Chicago moving-day parking permit cost?

• Ward courtesy signs are often free. CDOT enforceable permits are commonly referenced around $25 on ward pages, with possible extra charges for meters or commercial areas. See the 49th Ward FAQs.

Can I place a POD or storage container on a Chicago street?

• Generally no. The municipal code restricts storage of goods on the public way. Place containers on private property or only as allowed by permit. Review the code on public way storage.

What if someone parks in my reserved moving spot in Chicago?

• If you have CDOT-permitted, city-posted signs, follow your permit instructions or call 311 to request enforcement. Courtesy ward signs are not enforceable, so you must resolve it informally or obtain a CDOT permit.