How to stop your neighbor from parking in your driveway?

Having limited parking space in the Philippines has been an ongoing struggle for many car owners, whether it’s public parking or in one’s own home. Many houses still don’t have a garage unless they’re situated in a subdivision, but this hasn’t stopped many Filipinos from turning into motorists.

With the rising demand for affordable cars in the Philippines, more and more families are getting a vehicle to make their travels easier and more convenient. But the lack of a proper parking space is still a common complaint, and this often leads to friction when a neighbor who doesn’t have a garage is forced to park in front of yours.  

A real driver should know standard parking etiquette

RA 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code prohibits blocking of another person’s driveway; after all, you should have made provisions for a parking space even before buying a car, and the lack of a garage on your part really isn’t your neighbor’s concern.

Blocking your neighbor’s driveway for your own convenience just smacks of disrespect and lack of decency. Now, if you’re having this exact dilemma with neighbors who are constantly blocking your driveway, here are some tips from Philkotse.com.

1. Talk to them politely

One way to resolve parking issues with your neighbors is a good old-fashioned conversation. There is nothing wrong in voicing out your concerns as long as you express them in a dignified manner. Maybe they honestly weren’t aware of the inconvenience they were causing and just needed to be reminded.

If your neighbors are civil enough, they will likely realize their mistake and look for an appropriate parking space for their car while making plans to put up a proper garage of their own.

In addressing conflicts, communication is  key 

>>> Related: Is it really illegal to block a driveway in the Philippines?

2. Place signs at the gate

If you have tried talking to your neighbor yet no positive response is forthcoming, then it might be time to take things to the next level. Putting up signs such as “Do Not Block The Driveway” is a more overt reminder of your rights as a homeowner, and at least you wouldn’t have to repeat yourself.

There are instances though when it can’t be helped for them to park outside your driveway even with the sign present, such as when they might be receiving visitors. The neighborly thing to do is for them to ask for your consent first, then make sure that the car can be moved at a moment’s notice when necessary.

Maybe a little subtler than this, but you get the idea

>>> Be a polite driver, check out:  8 car parking etiquettes that every Filipino drivers should practice.

3. Install security cameras

While closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras are essential in preventing incidents of vehicle theft and vandalism, they are also helpful in preventing your neighbor’s car from blocking your driveway.

If your neighbors are aware that there are cameras watching their every move, they’ll definitely think twice before parking in front of your house. The recorded footage also makes it easy for you to save and retrieve particular footage as evidence in case your neighbor starts denying or feigning ignorance.

Security cameras serve as undeniable evidence

4. Seek help from the barangay

Extreme situations can sometimes call for extreme solutions. If your neighbor continues to brazenly ignore your requests despite talking to them, putting up signs and setting up a CCTV camera, then it’s time to coordinate with your barangay officials regarding the matter.

They will likely set and mediate a meeting between you and your neighbors to settle the issue. Either your neighbors finally budge and voluntarily remove the offending vehicle from your driveway, or the barangay or other relevant authority will need to call in a towing service, which should be at the neighbor’s expense.

Considering the expense and hassles in reclaiming a towed vehicle, it is best to follow the law.

It best to settle parking issues in a civil manner, as much as possible. Do not attempt to get back at your neighbors by committing the same offense, since it doesn’t make you any better than them. Maintaining a healthy and friendly relationship with your neighbors is still the end goal.

If you find these driving tips useful, let’s practice and share with your friends and neighbors.