Living on streets with limited or tricky parking can be a daily struggle. Over time, residents often get used to parking in a particular spot near their homes. So when a neighbour asks you to move your car from your usual place, it can quickly spark frustration.
This exact situation happened to one homeowner who shared the story on Reddit, seeking opinions about whether they were in the wrong after their neighbour requested they avoid parking in front of their own house.
The homeowner explained: “I parked in front of my own house yesterday, as I always do—it’s an ordinary street, with no reserved spots or restrictions. While I was carrying in groceries, my neighbour came out and said, ‘Hey, can you not park here today? I’ve got people coming over and they’ll need the space.’”
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Stunned, the homeowner replied, “You want me to move my car… from in front of my own house… for your guests?”
The neighbour assured them it was “just for today,” but the homeowner refused: “Her friends can figure it out like everyone else does. The neighbour walked off muttering, as if I was the rude one. Honestly, if your party depends on controlling someone else’s parking spot, maybe rethink hosting.”
The online community was divided. Some supported the homeowner’s right to park in front of their own house, with comments like, “Neighbours can be wild! The audacity to ask that like she owns the street!” Others questioned the neighbour’s request, noting, “Why can’t the guests just walk the extra distance like anyone else?”
However, some sided with the neighbour, reasoning that in friendly neighbourhoods, asking for a small favour during a special event seems reasonable. “If it’s not a busy street, asking to park a bit further just for one day isn’t a big deal,” wrote one user.
So, what does the law say about parking outside your home? Generally, parking on public roads in front of your property is allowed if there are no restrictions. However, there’s no exclusive right to any specific parking space—even directly outside your house. Anyone can legally park on a public street if space is available, provided they don’t block driveways or footpaths.
If illegal or obstructive parking occurs, local councils can enforce rules. But when disputes arise over informal parking expectations, it often comes down to neighbourly goodwill and clear communication rather than legal rights.