Satirical float in the 2002 Knights of Chaos parade
The city's Parking Violations Bureau is notoriously
unmerciful, especially during Mardi Gras.
DRIVING & PARKING
DURING MARDI GRAS IN NEW ORLEANS
Parking ordinances are strictly enforced during Mardi Gras — a veritable bonanza for tow companies and the city’s parking violations bureau, which has been known to issue more than 20,000 tickets during the festivities, with many citations mailed out of town.
If your vehicle is towed, it will cost you $125 to $175, depending on the nature of the parking violation. Impounded vehicles can be retrieved under the freeway overpass at 400 N. Claiborne Avenue (Ph. 504-565-7450). Make sure you know the vehicle’s license plate number, and bring your driver’s license. Payment must be cash, Visa or MasterCard.
Especially during the last five last days of Carnival ending Fat Tuesday, finding street parking near a parade or in the Central Business District, the French Quarter or Faubourg Marigny is notoriously difficult. Also note that the closer to a parade you get, the more likely you are to get stuck in traffic. So if you’re driving to a parade, allow for extra time to find a safe, legal parking spot. Parking enforcement is especially strict along or near parade routes, so don’t park too close to a curb or a fire hydrant, or block driveways
Consider paying for off-street parking — at a church, say, or school. However, if you’re paying for off-street parking in a residential neighborhood near a parade route, be sure the person who is responsible for the property is handing the transaction and not someone who’s just out to hustle a quick buck. And be sure not to leave any items inside your car in view.
When Mardi Gras is in full swing, trying to navigate the streets of the French Quarter can be quite a headache. You may be better off taking a cab. But if you do drive, a parking lot or garage in the vicinity of the Quarter may be your best bet. Canal Place, at the foot of Canal Street, can be a good option, provided that access is not blocked by a parade on Canal Street. Also, off-street parking is usually available in the Central Business District. Note, however, that “special event” rates may apply for parking at any lot or garage in the French Quarter or downtown.
If you’re driving during parade season, keep a parade guide with schedule and routes handy. Traffic snarls are often encountered in the vicinity of a parade route, so knowing when and where floats are rolling, and planning your route accordingly, can save time and aggravation.
Tip: If parades are rolling on the Uptown route, a good way to commute between Downtown and Uptown is via Claiborne Avenue.
Remember that streetcars always have the right of way. And don’t think just because New Orleans permits the consumption of alcohol in the streets that police are somehow lax about drinking and driving — far from it. If anything, they’re particularly vigilant during Mardi Gras, because they know people are partying. If you’re driving around the city at night or heading to or from Metairie, don’t be surprised to encounter an alcohol checkpoint.
More guidelines:
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