Parking too close to a stop sign is one of those small mistakes that can lead to a ticket or even a safety hazard. In Texas, the law is clear: you must park at least 30 feet away from a stop sign, traffic signal, or yield sign posted at the side of a roadway. That rule isn’t just about technical compliance—it’s designed to keep intersections visible and safe for everyone on the road.

The Legal Rule in Texas

The Texas Transportation Code §545.302(b)(4) specifically states that a driver may not park “within 30 feet on the approach to a stop sign, yield sign, or traffic control signal located at the side of a roadway.” This law applies to every driver, whether you’re in a residential neighborhood or a busy city street. If your car is parked closer than that, even by a few feet, you can be ticketed or towed depending on local enforcement.

The 30-foot distance is measured from the vehicle’s front bumper to the base of the sign or post. If there’s no curb, always leave extra space to make sure your car isn’t blocking visibility.

Why the 30-Foot Rule Exists

Stop signs are placed at intersections to regulate traffic flow and prevent accidents. If a vehicle parks too close to a stop sign, it blocks another driver’s line of sight and creates unnecessary risk. That’s why Texas—and most other states—set a fixed distance rule for parking near signs and signals.

Keeping a clear 30-foot buffer ensures that approaching drivers can see the sign early enough to react safely. It also helps pedestrians, cyclists, and emergency vehicles navigate intersections without obstruction.

Other Parking Distance Rules to Know

While the stop sign rule is the most common, Texas law includes several other distance requirements that drivers often overlook. Here are a few examples from the same section of the transportation code:

• Within 15 feet of a fire hydrant.
• Within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection.
• Within 20 feet of a driveway entrance to a fire station.
• Within 50 feet of a railroad crossing.

Violating these rules can result in fines that vary by city, but the reasoning is the same: visibility and access. The more space drivers leave near intersections and public areas, the safer the road becomes for everyone.

Common Mistakes Texas Drivers Make

Many drivers unintentionally park too close to stop signs because they don’t know how the 30-foot distance looks in real-world terms. As a general reference, 30 feet is roughly the length of two compact cars or one large pickup truck. If you’re unsure, leave extra room—it’s better to be cautious than risk a citation.

Another common mistake is parking on the opposite side of a stop sign or at an angle near corners. Even if the sign isn’t directly in front of your vehicle, if it’s within 30 feet on the approach side, you could still be cited for a violation.

How Violations Are Handled

Parking too close to a stop sign is typically considered a non-moving violation, but it can still carry a fine depending on the city. For example, in large Texas cities like Austin or Houston, fines often range between $25 and $75. Smaller municipalities may have similar penalties but can also tow vehicles that create visibility hazards.

If you receive a ticket for this type of violation, you may be able to take a defensive driving course to improve your record and demonstrate safe driving awareness. Always confirm eligibility with the court before enrolling.

How Defensive Driving Helps Prevent Future Mistakes

Many Texans take defensive driving not just to dismiss tickets, but to refresh their understanding of everyday laws—like how close you can park to a stop sign. These courses cover safe stopping distances, line-of-sight issues, and other small details that help prevent minor violations from turning into serious problems.

All approved programs are licensed by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). You can find a complete list of providers through the TDLR Approved Course Directory or explore options for Driver Education and Continuing Education on TDLRApproved.com.

Tips to Avoid Parking Tickets in Texas

• Always park at least 30 feet from any stop, yield, or traffic signal.
• Leave 15 feet of clearance from hydrants and 20 feet from crosswalks.
• When in doubt, check for painted curbs or posted “No Parking” signs.
• Never assume the rule doesn’t apply on residential streets—it does everywhere.

Most violations happen because drivers rush to park without noticing nearby signs. Taking an extra moment to scan the area can save you from unnecessary tickets and fines.

Bottom Line

In Texas, you must park at least 30 feet away from a stop sign to comply with state law and keep intersections safe. The rule comes straight from the Texas Transportation Code and helps prevent accidents by ensuring visibility for all drivers. When you’re not sure how far 30 feet is, give yourself extra space—and if you do get a citation, consider a TDLR-approved defensive driving course to refresh your knowledge and protect your record.