The minimum distance a vehicle is allowed to park from a fire hydrant varies by jurisdiction, but in most places, it is 15 feet (approximately 4.5 meters). However, some states and regions have different regulations.
United States Regulations
In the United States, the majority of states enforce a 15-foot (about 4.5 meters) minimum distance from fire hydrants. This standard is recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to ensure firefighters have adequate space to access hydrants during emergencies. Some states have shorter minimum distances:
- Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, New Jersey, North Dakota, Oregon, Wisconsin : 10 feet
- Rhode Island : 8 feet
- Tennessee : 7.5 feet
- Vermont : 6 feet
- Iowa : 5 feet
Temporary exceptions may apply, such as allowing brief stops to pick up or drop off passengers, but parking is generally prohibited within these distances.
Canadian Regulations
In Ontario, Canada, vehicles must not park within 3 meters (about 9.8 feet) of a fire hydrant, with a fine of $100 for violations. Other provinces may have similar rules.
Australian Regulations
In Western Australia, the minimum parking distance from a fire hydrant is 3 metres.
Summary Table
Jurisdiction| Minimum Distance
---|---
Most U.S. states| 15 feet (~4.5 m) 1
Connecticut, D.C., Maine, etc.| 10 feet (~3 m) 1
Ontario, Canada| 3 metres (~9.8 ft) 9
Western Australia| 3 metres (~9.8 ft) 2
These regulations are in place to ensure emergency responders can quickly access hydrants without obstruction, which is critical for fire suppression and public safety.
