Parking lots are shared spaces—and yet, they’re often treated like the Wild West of driving. From speeding through aisles to blocking EV charging stations, poor parking lot behavior can lead to frustration, accidents, and even environmental harm. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend shopper, or someone just trying to grab coffee, a little parking lot etiquette goes a long way.
Here’s a friendly—but firm—guide to the unspoken rules of parking lot behavior, including safety tips, EV space respect, and proper trash disposal. Share it with friends, post it to your social feed, and help keep our lots safe, clean, and efficient.
1. Stay Within the Lines — Literally
Let’s start with the basics: park within the lines of a single space. It’s not just about courtesy—it’s about maximizing space and preventing fender benders. Avoid:
- Hugging the line
- Angling your car across spaces
- Taking up two spots “to avoid door dings”
Need more space? Park farther from the entrance—there’s often more room (and fewer door slams).
2. Drive Slow, Stay Alert
Speed limits in parking lots are typically 5 to 10 mph for a reason. These areas are full of pedestrians, children, shopping carts, and reversing vehicles.
Follow these tips:
- Slow down when turning corners or passing rows
- Use your turn signals when changing lanes
- Yield to pedestrians and shoppers crossing lanes
- Don’t assume people see you—even if you have the right of way
3. Respect EV-Only Spots
As electric vehicles become more common, so do designated EV charging spaces. Unless you’re actively charging an EV, do not park in these spots, even “just for a minute.”
Blocking an EV spot is the equivalent of parking at a gas pump and walking away—it prevents others from refueling.
If you drive an EV:
- Only occupy a charging spot while charging
- Move your vehicle promptly when finished
- Avoid “ICE-ing” (when an internal combustion engine blocks an EV charger)
4. Don’t Block Others — Even Briefly
It might be tempting to double-park, wait in front of store entrances, or idle behind other vehicles—but this blocks traffic flow and can create hazards.
Avoid:
- Parking outside the lines while waiting
- Stopping in fire lanes or loading zones without permission
- Blocking driveways, ramps, or access lanes
If you’re picking someone up, use a designated zone or pull into a real space until they’re ready.
5. Keep It Clean: Trash and Spill Etiquette
Parking lots are not garbage bins. Dumping your fast food bag, drink cups, or cigarette butts is not only inconsiderate—it’s often illegal and contributes to urban runoff pollution.
Tips for keeping lots clean:
- Use nearby trash and recycling bins
- If you don’t see one, pack it out until you do
- Clean up after yourself if you spill or drop something
- Don’t leave carts adrift—return them to a corral or designated area
6. Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Pedestrians and cyclists often cross between cars or enter unexpected pathways. Always:
- Check your mirrors before reversing
- Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks
- Don’t block bike lanes or cut through sidewalk paths
- Avoid distractions like texting while driving in the lot
7. Be Courteous During High-Traffic Times
Whether it’s a holiday weekend or a concert night, busy lots can get tense. A little patience goes a long way:
- Don’t honk at slow-moving vehicles or walkers
- Wait your turn for a spot—no swooping in
- Let exiting drivers pull out before you pull in
- Acknowledge good behavior with a nod or quick wave
Parking lot etiquette may not be spelled out on signs, but it shapes how we move through public space. By driving respectfully, parking responsibly, and cleaning up after ourselves, we can make parking lots safer, less stressful, and more sustainable.Want to share this list with your friends or team? Copy, repost, and spread the word—better parking behavior starts with awareness.
