REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
Discussion and Potential Actions on Study Issue DPS 24-02-Evaluate Municipal Code Section 10.16.120 (Use of Streets or Public Parking Facilities for Storage of Vehicles Prohibited) and Modernize Parking Requirements and Restrictions
Report
BACKGROUND
The City of Sunnyvale receives ongoing calls for service from residents and businesses regarding vehicles parked on public streets for extended periods in violation of Sunnyvale Municipal Code (SMC) Section 10.16.120, which limits on-street vehicle storage to seventy-two consecutive hours. While the ordinance has long been in place, its lack of objective standards has created challenges for enforcement and uncertainty for the public.
In February 2024, City Council directed staff to evaluate and modernize the City's long-term parking regulations. Council requested a review of best practices used by peer cities, clarification of enforcement standards related to vehicle movement, and evaluation of policy options for oversized vehicles, including permit programs and potential restrictions near parks and schools. In response, staff retained Walker Consultants to prepare a Citywide Parking Study focused on 72-hour parking and oversized vehicle management.
Attachment A titled, "Citywide Parking Study," provides the technical analysis, peer city review, legal context, and community outreach findings that support staff's recommendations below.
EXISTING POLICY
Sunnyvale Municipal Code (SMC) Section 10.16.120
It is unlawful for any person who owns or has possession, custody or control of any vehicle, including a boat or trailer, to park or leave such vehicle upon any street, alley, or public parking facility for a period of seventy-two consecutive hours or more. The intent of this section is to limit parking of vehicles, boats and trailers to seventy-two consecutive hours. A vehicle or trailer shall be considered to have been parked or left standing for seventy-two or more consecutive hour...
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