Is it illegal to park facing the wrong way in Michigan?

Parking on the left, or facing traffic is illegal. I will explain why it is illegal using two sections of the Michigan Vehicle Code.



Yes, it is illegal to park facing against the direction of traffic in the state of Michigan. According to the Michigan Vehicle Code (specifically MCL 257.675), vehicles parked on a two-way roadway must be parked parallel to the curb, headed in the direction of lawful traffic movement, and with the right-hand wheels within 12 inches of the curb. This law exists for safety: parking the "wrong way" requires you to drive on the wrong side of the road to both enter and exit the spot, which creates a high risk of head-on collisions, especially at night when your reflectors aren't visible to oncoming cars. In 2026, this is a common "revenue" ticket in many Michigan college towns and residential areas; a violation is typically classified as a civil infraction and results in a fine ranging from $25 to $75 depending on the municipality.

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(1) A vehicle must not be parked, except if necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic or in compliance with the law or the directions of a police officer or traffic-control device, in any of the following places: (a) On a sidewalk. (b) In front of a public or private driveway. (c) Within an intersection.

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The policy of Walmart welcomes RVers to spend a night in their parking lot, as long as you have the individual location's permission. In some places, city zoning laws or ordinances will prohibit overnight stays in parking lots. Typically, larger cities are most likely to have these types of restrictions in place.

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Generally it's not illegal to reverse into a parking space. Drivers that have had driver education should be able to do this safely and effectively, in one shot.

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This number has been declining as zoning laws and city ordinances are increasingly banning overnight parking. Store managers may also not allow it. According to Walmart's website, “Permission to park is extended by individual store managers, based on availability of parking space and local laws.

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Top 10 Free Overnight Parking Ideas
  • Casinos.
  • Movie Theaters.
  • Cracker Barrels.
  • Walmart.
  • Churches.
  • Arenas and Stadiums.
  • Farms and Vineyards.
  • Planet Fitness.


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Even parking too close to a driveway is enough to get a ticket (but not a tow). In most places, you can't be within a few feet of one. And that includes parking too close to your own driveway, too! Contact your local government to learn about the specific rules in your area.

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