Canadian Tire is one of Canada’s largest retailers, offering a wide variety of products and services including automotive, hardware, sports equipment, housewares, clothing, and financial services. With over 500 locations across Canada, Canadian Tire stores often have large parking lots that may seem convenient for overnight parking. However, policies vary by location so it’s important to check with each individual store regarding their rules on parking overnight.
Overnight Parking Policies at Canadian Tire
Unfortunately there is no definitive nationwide policy on overnight parking at Canadian Tire. Each location is independently owned and operated so parking rules can differ. Some locations may allow overnight parking while others prohibit it. There are a few common reasons why overnight parking is often not allowed:
Security | Parking lots need to be cleared at night for safety and security monitoring. Vehicles left unattended overnight can be security risks. |
Maintenance | Parking lots may need maintenance or snow removal done overnight which is easier with empty lots. |
Loitering and Camping | Discourages people from loitering or unofficial camping in the parking lot overnight. |
Liability | Reduces corporate liability if any incidents/accidents occur with unattended vehicles. |
Customer Access | Ensures customer parking spots are available during store operating hours. |
So in summary, while some locations may permit overnight parking, many have restrictions against it for liability, security, maintenance and customer access reasons. The only way to find out definitively is to contact your local store.
Getting Permission for Overnight Parking
If you do need to park overnight at a Canadian Tire store, it’s best to call the location and speak with the manager to get explicit permission. Explain your situation and reason for needing to park overnight. Some questions they may ask and factors they will consider include:
- What dates/times are you requesting to park overnight?
- Will it be a one time or recurring overnight parking?
- Make, model, color of your vehicle.
- Which area of the parking lot you’ll be parked in.
- Whether you’ll be sleeping in the vehicle or just parking it.
- If allowed, they may request you park away from the main store entrance.
Be courteous when calling and speak to the manager politely. Keep in mind that overnight parking is ultimately at their discretion. If approved, be sure to thank the manager for making the exception and accommodate any special requirements they may have.
Some Canadian Tire locations may require a signed waiver or release form for overnight parking. This form typically absolves them of liability in case of any incidents involving your unattended vehicle. Refusing to sign such a waiver could mean revoking permission to park on their property overnight.
Alternatives to Canadian Tire Overnight Parking
If your local Canadian Tire will not allow parking overnight, here are some alternative options to consider:
Park and Ride Lots
Many cities have designated park and ride locations usually situated near public transport hubs. These lots allow free overnight parking so commuters can leave their vehicles and take transit the rest of the way. Malls and churches sometimes also allow this use of their parking lots.
Recreational Vehicle Campsites
For traveling motorhomes or campers, look for RV parks and campgrounds in the area that offer overnight and weekly rates. These parks have facilities tailored specifically to recreational vehicles.
Rest Areas
Highway rest areas, travel plazas, and roadside stops may permit overnight parking for weary travelers to stop and rest before continuing their journey. Policies vary so check signs posted at each location.
Parking Apps
Apps like Rover and Parklee help users find affordable monthly parking or short term rentals of driveways, garages, vacant lots etc. Home and business owners list their extra parking spots to earn income.
Paid Parking Lots
Some standalone pay parking lots, such as those at airports, allow vehicles to remain multiple nights after paying the applicable overnight and weekly fees. Policies and security features vary by lot.
Hotel Parking
If you are a guest at a hotel, motel or inn, they typically allow you to park overnight complimentary or for a daily parking fee. This is convenient for overnight guests.
Verifying Parking Regulations
Before parking on any private or public property overnight, it’s essential to verify parking policies and restrictions for that location. Some ways to confirm:
- Call the property owner or manager directly
- Check municipal by-laws for restrictions on parking, sleeping in vehicles etc.
- Look for posted signs around parking lot entrances and exits
- Read terms and conditions on any parking payment machines
- Search online for overnght parking policies if available
This saves you from being surprised later with a fine, ticket or towed vehicle for violating parking rules. If ever in doubt, seek permission first or choose an alternative overnight parking location.
Dangers of Overnight Parking
While parking overnight might seem like an easy way to save on accommodation costs, there are some risks to be aware of:
- Vehicle break-ins and theft – valuables left in an unattended vehicle can attract thieves.
- Vandalism – disgruntled people may vandalize vehicles left for multiple nights.
- Bylaw infractions – parking enforcement could ticket you.
- Personal safety risks – especially for solo travelers parking in isolated, poorly lit areas.
- Towing – parking lots with posted restrictions will tow unauthorized vehicles.
- Nuisance complaints – from nearby homeowners or businesses.
To minimize risks, choose well-lit parking areas in busier locations, completely clear out any valuables, and move your vehicle to a different spot periodically if staying multiple nights. Also check that the parking spot allows easy exit in case of emergencies before choosing to stay there overnight.
Conclusion
Overnight parking policies are determined on a case-by-case basis by each Canadian Tire store. Some may permit it with prior approval while others prefer their lots be cleared outside business hours. Travelers planning to park overnight should always call ahead for permission, comply with any requirements, and have back-up options available nearby in case overnight parking is refused. While parking for multiple nights in a private or public lot can save money compared to a hotel, it also carries increased security and legal risks that need to be considered.