Is a private driveway or parking lot a public road?

The answer depends upon the nature of the property. If a driveway, parking lot, or yard is open to the public, it may be private property but is still considered a highway under U.S. DOT safety regulations. If the private property has restrictive gates, fences, signs, etc., and the public cannot gain access, then it does not meet the “highway” definition, which means commercial vehicles operating in that area are not subject to DOT safety regulations. Refer to 390.5.

If a business has mechanics, yard jockeys, or other employees operating large vehicles on private property, the business cannot assume the drivers and vehicles are exempt from regulation. The business would need to examine the premises to determine if the area may be considered a “highway,” and if it is, the drivers and vehicles must comply with safety regulations no matter how little they may operate.