Snowstorm Parking Disputes Erupt in Northern Cities

Residents clash over 'dibs' on shoveled spots, leading to violence and property damage

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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After recent snowstorms, disputes over claiming and defending shoveled parking spots have led to violent confrontations in several northern U.S. cities. While many residents see 'dibs' on spots they've cleared as an unwritten tradition, authorities have struggled to enforce laws prohibiting the practice on public streets.

Why it matters

The 'snow parking wars' highlight the intense competition for limited curbside parking in urban areas after major winter storms, as well as the clash between neighborhood customs and municipal regulations. The disputes have resulted in assaults, property damage, and growing tensions within communities.

The details

In Philadelphia, a brawl over a parking spot left a man in critical condition. In Pittsburgh, an argument led to police response and a car being buried in snow. In Boston, a man was accused of stabbing two people over a disputed space. Many cities prohibit 'dibs' on public parking, but the practice remains common, with residents using household items to mark spots they've shoveled.

  • Last month, a major snowstorm hit the region.
  • In late January, a 'monster snowstorm' struck Baltimore.

The players

Brandon Scott

The mayor of Baltimore, who told residents 'Don't do it' in reference to saving shoveled parking spots.

Torrie Kim

A Baltimore pharmacist who had her car vandalized after taking a shoveled spot that was not hers.

Aeriel Burtley

A nonprofit worker in Midtown Manhattan who left a note apologizing for taking a shoveled spot that was not hers.

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What they’re saying

“Don't do it. If I see your chair, it's coming with me and going into the trash.”

— Brandon Scott, Mayor of Baltimore (Baltimore Sun)

“I just don't think that using a chair or a trash can on a public street guarantees a spot hours later.”

— Torrie Kim, Baltimore Resident (New York Times)

“It was such a small thing, a few sentences scribbled on paper, but in a city where winter parking can bring out the worst in neighbors, it felt like it mattered. Sometimes, a little acknowledgment of someone else's effort goes a long way.”

— Aeriel Burtley, Midtown Manhattan Resident (New York Times)

What’s next

Authorities in affected cities are considering stricter enforcement of laws prohibiting the use of personal items to reserve public parking spots, as well as public education campaigns to promote neighborhood etiquette and cooperation during winter storms.

The takeaway

The 'snow parking wars' highlight the need for cities to find a balance between respecting community traditions and enforcing laws to maintain public order and safety. As urban areas grapple with limited parking, small acts of consideration and compromise may go a long way in easing tensions between neighbors.