Parking rules & vehicle limits landlords can enforce at rentals

Answer

Short answer: yes — landlords may set reasonable limits on vehicles when the rules are written into the lease or posted property regulations, but those limits must respect local law, public-street rules, HOA covenants and federal fair-housing requirements. In other words, you can control on-site parking and assigned spaces, but you usually cannot regulate parking on public roads or adopt rules that discriminate against protected classes.

How landlords usually lawfully limit vehicles: most landlords define parking in the lease (e.g., “one parking space per unit” or “no oversized vehicles, trailers, or RVs”). You can assign numbered spaces, require vehicle registration with management, and prohibit inoperable or unregistered cars. Enforcement commonly includes warnings, towing (where local law and posted signage allow), fines written into the lease, or revoking a parking permit. Make sure any towing or parking policy complies with state statutes and local towing/tow-notice rules.

Limits and legal boundaries to watch:

• Public street parking: landlords generally cannot restrict vehicles parked on public streets — municipalities control those rules.
• Local ordinances/municipal code: some cities limit towing, require notice, or mandate how parking rules are adopted and changed (Texas and other states have specific disclosure and notice rules for parking policies).
• HOA or zoning rules: Homeowner association covenants and local zoning can impose additional restrictions (e.g., number of vehicles, RV storage, commercial vehicles).
• Fair Housing and reasonable accommodation: parking rules must not have a discriminatory effect and landlords must consider reasonable accommodation requests for people with disabilities.

Practical steps to reduce disputes:

• Put clear parking rules in the lease or a signed addendum (how many spaces, assigned spots, guest rules, towing policy).
• Post visible signage for towing and enforcement and follow state notice requirements before towing.
• Require tenants to register vehicles (make, model, plate) and keep records.
• Use a separate written parking agreement or charge for dedicated spaces if needed.

Bottom line: you can limit on-site vehicles through lease terms and property rules, but you must follow local statutes, avoid discriminatory practices, and respect public-street and HOA rules. If you plan a strict vehicle policy or face pushback, it’s advisable to consult a licensed attorney or local housing authority to confirm what's enforceable in your city or state. For federal guidance on discrimination, see HUD.