Keeping the Peace (and Your Grass) During Blue Angels Weekend

With the big air show coming up, our quiet neighborhood near the bay gets completely swamped with out-of-towners parking on our lawns and blocking mailboxes. I want to be a welcoming Floridian, but it’s getting dangerous and messy. What’s the polite way to set boundaries with eager tourists who think our front yards are public parking?

— Blue Angels Bystander

Dear Blue Angels Bystander,

Oh, honey, I feel your pain. There is nothing quite like the thrilling rumble of the Blues overhead, but that joy quickly evaporates when you find a strange SUV parked squarely over your sprinklers. We love our tourists and their enthusiasm, but Gulf Coast hospitality shouldn’t cost you your St. Augustine grass or your peace of mind.

Mark Your Territory with Coastal Charm

The trick to deterring eager beachgoers isn’t anger; it’s anticipation. Before the crowds descend, make your boundaries unmistakably clear. Do not rely on people’s best judgment when they are desperate to catch a glimpse of Fat Albert. Line your property line with heavy potted plants, tiki torches, or even a row of colorful Adirondack chairs. If your yard looks beautifully manicured and highly active, folks are much less likely to treat it like an overflow lot.

Keep Signs Polite but Clear

A little Southern humor goes a long way. Instead of a harsh “Keep Out” sign, try something like, “No Parking: Grass in Recovery,” or “Please Keep Driveway Clear for Emergency Access.” If you have a mailbox near the road, tie a couple of bright, festive balloons to it with a small sign reminding drivers that the mail carrier needs access. It looks celebratory, but it gets the job done.

Be Present and Team Up

The absolute best deterrent is your own friendly presence. Set up a canopy, drag a cooler to the front porch, and make a day of it with your neighbors. If drivers see you sitting out there enjoying a sweet tea, they will think twice before squeezing into your driveway. If someone does try to park illegally, a cheerful, “Hi there! This is private property, but there is public parking just down the road,” will usually send them on their way with a smile.

Remember, if someone completely blocks your driveway, that is a safety hazard. Keep the local non-emergency dispatch number handy—you have every right to protect your home. Wishing you a safe, clear-lawned, and spectacular air show season!