The Town of Newmarket is providing a bit of holiday relief for residents and their guests by temporarily suspending several on-street parking restrictions. According to a public notice issued on December 11, 2025, the town will ease enforcement to accommodate holiday gatherings and overnight stays from December 20, 2025, through January 2, 2026.
During this window, Municipal Law Enforcement Officers will not issue tickets for vehicles parked on the street overnight between 2:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. Additionally, the standard limit of three consecutive hours for on-street parking will be waived. Normal winter parking rules and enforcement are scheduled to resume on January 3, 2026.
Safety Restrictions and Snow Events
While the town is relaxing certain bylaws, Mayor John Taylor and local officials emphasize that safety remains the priority. The holiday exemption does not apply during snow events. If the town declares a significant snowfall, vehicles must be moved off the streets to allow snowplows to clear the roads safely; vehicles that obstruct plows may still be ticketed or towed.
Furthermore, all other parking regulations remain in effect. Enforcement will continue for vehicles that:
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Block sidewalks, driveways, or pedestrian routes.
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Park within three meters of a fire hydrant.
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Occupy accessible parking spaces without a valid permit.
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Park in designated “no stopping” or “no parking” zones.
Alternative Overnight Parking
For those who cannot find street parking or wish to ensure their vehicles are clear of potential plowing activity, the town is offering free temporary off-street overnight permits. These permits allow residents to park in specific municipal lots, provided the vehicles are moved by 7:00 a.m. Participating locations include the Magna Centre, Ray Twinney Recreation Complex, and the Municipal Offices on Mulock Drive.
Residents are encouraged to monitor the town’s social media channels for any emergency weather declarations that might void the parking exemptions. For specific questions about the Parking Exemption Program, you can contact the town at 905-895-5193.
