What Changed in Ocean City’s Parking Ordinances This August?

On August 8, 2025, City Council gave final approval to two measures “to improve parking,” per the Mayor’s weekly message.

• Ordinance 1: Tightens rules on commercial and construction vehicles.

• Ordinance 2: Clarifies off-season meter policy and enforcement.

👉 In plain English: If you or your contractor leaves equipment or trailers overnight on the street near a job site—especially around Asbury Avenue, Central Avenue, and the 8th–10th Street corridor—expect stricter enforcement.

Key Rules for Work Trucks, Trailers, and Job Sites

• No overnight parking of construction trailers or oversized equipment on public streets unless part of a permitted, compliant operation.

• No “spot saving” by leaving a trailer overnight.

• Permitted staging areas must be used, or equipment must be moved off-street after work hours.

Three Locally Specific Takeaways

1. Trailers & equipment can’t sit overnight on the right-of-way. Violations may lead to tickets or towing.

2. Off-season meters (Oct 31–May 1) are generally free, but rules vary at the Baker Lot (8th & Boardwalk) and the 12th & Asbury lot—always check posted signs.

3. Permits & staging questions are handled at City Hall, 861 Asbury Ave.

How This Affects Ocean City Homeowners

If you’re renovating a North End duplex or scheduling a winter Riviera kitchen project, plan your contractor staging as if curb space isn’t guaranteed.

• Require contractors to show posted permits.

• Ask where dumpsters and trucks will be parked overnight.

• Be mindful of narrow streets like 9th & Asbury, where equipment could block driveways and trigger complaints.

Quick Compliance Checklist (Contractor-Friendly)

• ✅ Confirm scope and staging with City Hall (861 Asbury Ave).

• ✅ Use permitted or off-street zones for overnight equipment.

• ✅ Remember free-meter season runs Oct 31–May 1, but lot rules vary.

• ✅ For tight corridors (Asbury/Central, 8th–10th), consider smaller daily deliveries.

Micro-FAQ

Will my contractor be ticketed for a trailer left overnight?
Yes. If it’s on a public street without compliant staging, it can be ticketed or towed.

Are meters free all winter?
Most municipal meters are free from Oct 31–May 1, but always check lot-specific signage.

Where do I confirm my case?
Visit or call City Hall (861 Asbury Ave) for staging and permit clarification.

Why It Matters (Timing & Resale)

Homes that avoid the “equipment farm” look during renovations tend to show better—even mid-project. For sellers targeting a Spring 2026 debut, scheduling heavy exterior work during free-meter months can reduce friction and carrying costs.

Sources

• Mayor’s Message (Aug 8, 2025) — Confirmed final approval and intent “to improve parking.”

• City Ordinance PDF — Confirmed overnight trailer/equipment restrictions.

• OCNJ Parking Pages — Verified Baker Lot & 12th & Asbury lot signage policies.

• City Hall Listing (861 Asbury Ave) — Verified permit counter location.