Winter in Owatonna brings not just snow but also specific parking regulations essential for efficient street maintenance and snow removal. Starting November 15 and lasting until March 31, the city enforces an odd/even parking rule, which dictates which side of the street you can park on, depending on the date.

From 12:01 a.m. to noon, vehicles must be parked on the side of the street that corresponds to the day's calendar number. For instance, if it's an even-numbered date, parking should be on the even-numbered side and vice versa. This alternation does not require residents to relocate their cars at midnight, as the system anticipates the change at 12:01 a.m.

Outside these hours, from noon until midnight, these restrictions do not apply unless specified otherwise by local signs. However, it’s crucial to remember that these regulations are active irrespective of snow presence and do not apply to streets with posted restrictive parking or cul-de-sacs with mixed-address numbers.

To aid residents, Owatonna offers a convenient Winter Parking Map app available on its website. This tool provides detailed information on the permissible parking zones during the winter months, making it easier for residents to comply with the city’s ordinances.

As both December and January begin and end with an odd-numbered date, this system remains particularly straightforward to remember during transitions between months. Adhering to these regulations ensures roads remain clear and safe for all travelers, highlighting the community’s cooperative spirit during the colder months.