As we all know, Encinitas Ranch is an idyllic neighborhood and a highly desirable place to live.  While as residents we enjoy its intrinsic characteristics, such as its beautiful surroundings, perfect weather, and ocean-close location, we should be mindful that there are other aspects of a neighborhood that we ourselves directly influence that also make it a joy, or sometimes less so, to live here.  Those aspects, in essence, stem from our being kind, considerate, and polite neighbors.  This article is intended to remind us of one such consideration that we sometimes overlook, street parking etiquette.

As highlighted in our June newsletter, street parking is open to the public and no owner “owns” the street in front of their home.  However, it is also well understood that out of respect for, and as a courtesy to, our neighbors, we should endeavor to park our vehicles in our garages, on our driveways, or in front of our homes, in that order of preference.  Parking in front of our neighbor’s home when those other options are available to us is simply impolite.  From a practical perspective, doing so is unattractive, can limit their visibility when backing out of their driveway and make it difficult for them to maintain their yard.  But at its essence, it is simply a common courtesy for each of us to be considerate and attempt to park our cars on or as close to our property as possible, so as not to impose upon our neighbors.

As an analogy, consider this scenario.  You’re on a cross-country flight and the person beside you places their carry-on bag under the seat in front of you, rather than themselves, so that they can enjoy a little extra room.  It is certainly “legal” to do so as the rules simply state that the bag must be placed under a seat, and that space is open to everyone.  But their doing so is certainly impolite, inconsiderate and an imposition on you.

So this is a reminder that, as good neighbors, we should endeavor to be kind, considerate, and polite to one another in all our interactions, and avoid doing things that, although they might be “legal,” might inconvenience or otherwise impose upon our neighbors.  Being mindful of where we park our cars and trying to do so on or adjacent to our property whenever possible, is one such polite consideration that can help ensure that Encinitas Ranch continues to be the wonderful neighborhood that we all enjoy.”