Skip to Content
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Log In
Streetsblog USA

2-Minute Video: Why Parking Minimums Are the Worst

"Minimum parking requirements act like a fertility drug for cars," Donald Shoup wrote in his celebrated investigation of parking economics, The High Cost of Free Parking. The above video, from the city of Ottawa, does a good job explaining exactly why that is and the problems it causes.

Ottawa commissioned the animation to explain why its 1960s-era parking regulations need rethinking if the city is going to be a walkable place. But the same principles apply to cities everywhere.

Hat tip: City Obseratory

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog Los Angeles

Tuesday’s Headlines

Potholes, wildfires, car-free life, Chandler bikeway, South Pasadena freeway fighter, East L.A. walks, car-nage, and more

January 6, 2026

This Week In Livable Streets

Metro Public Safety Advisory Committee, Sawtelle Bikes ride, and more.

January 5, 2026

UCLA Study Finds Metro Transit Ambassador Program Is Benefitting Metro Riders

"Overall, ambassadors contribute to improved passenger experiences and play a needed role not well-served by other existing staff or system design features."

January 5, 2026

Monday’s Headlines

La Brea pothole, cap-and-trade, rain gardens, river path, Angeles Crest Highway, car-nage, and more

January 5, 2026

Streetsblog Predictions for 2026

Rail openings, speed cameras, but not many new bikeways

January 2, 2026
See all posts