Orangeburg County officials have banned commercial trucks from neighborhood streets following resident complaints. The ordinance, passed in late April 2025, prohibits parking commercial vehicles in residential areas for more than one hour.
The new rules specifically target vehicles over two tons used for commercial, construction, or industrial purposes within unincorporated boundaries of the county. Such vehicles are now prohibited from parking in residential districts unless “actively involved in their intended purpose.”
The county council enacted the measure primarily as a safety precaution. Officials cited protecting children from potential injuries caused by visual blind spots as a key motivation.
“We’ve heard numerous concerns from residents about large commercial vehicles creating hazards in their neighborhoods,” said an Orangeburg County spokesperson. “This ordinance addresses those legitimate safety worries.”
Beyond safety, the ban aims to preserve neighborhood aesthetics and infrastructure. The council listed protecting property values, minimizing damage to public rights of way, reducing congestion, and eliminating “visual blight” as additional objectives.
Truck drivers caught violating the ordinance face significant penalties. According to WLTX, fines could reach $500 per violation.
The move comes as many communities nationwide grapple with balancing the needs of commercial drivers with residential quality of life. Truckers, already facing limited parking options nationwide, may find themselves further squeezed by such local restrictions.
Commercial drivers passing through Orangeburg County should note that the ban applies only to residential areas. The ordinance does not restrict parking in properly zoned commercial or industrial districts.
The county has not announced specific enforcement dates or procedures, though the ordinance is now officially in effect.