by James Gordon on FlickrThe best thing about Smart cars is that their length is equal to the width of the average car, allowing the driver to fit into tight spots by parking perpendicular to the curb, essentially creating a parking space where there isn't one.

Unfortunately California Smart car owners will have to lobby for a change in state law in order to reap the parking benefits of their fun little rides. The San Francisco Chronicle reports that state law requires both the front and rear tire on the curb-side of the car to be within 18 inches of the curb. The article mentions that other states have similar laws.

Since the current city administration seemingly views parking fines as a tax the voters don't have to approve (and issues violations copiously,) I recommend Smart owners not take their chances.