Home Depot Denies Viral Parking Fee Hoax Amid Social Media Backlash

ATLANTA — Home Depot has found itself in a social media firestorm this week after a satirical article falsely claimed the company would soon charge customers for parking. The rumor spread rapidly after being posted on April Fools’ Day by Pro Tool Reviews, causing outrage among DIY enthusiasts nationwide.

The fictional piece, credited to an imaginary spokesperson named Tucker Lotman, claimed that Home Depot would implement a parking fee of up to $5 per day in response to rising inflation and supply chain costs. Despite a clear April Fools’ tag at the bottom, many customers failed to recognize the joke.

“#BoycottHomeDepot @HomeDepot wants to charge you $5 to park!!” tweeted a disgruntled shopper named Rocky, reflecting the widespread anger felt by many customers. In response to the growing backlash, Home Depot quickly issued a statement to clarify the misinformation.

“This is not true,” a Home Depot spokesperson wrote in an email. “This was apparently an April Fools’ joke that Pro Tool Reviews posted without our knowledge. We do not charge parking lot fees and do not plan to.”

The fake article even suggested that customers could avoid paying the fee by spending at least $250 or by enrolling in the store’s loyalty program, further provoking customer frustration. Despite being a humorous attempt at satire, the report’s details and realistic tone misled several readers.

“We enjoy good-natured humor and love laughing with other people,” said Kenny Koehler, editor-in-chief at Pro Tool Reviews. He acknowledged the significant attention the prank received this year compared to previous years. “We hope our friends over at Home Depot were able to laugh as well.”

As the online chaos unfolded, the company reiterated its commitment to a no-fee parking policy and reminded customers about upcoming Spring promotions. Despite the misinformation, Home Depot shoppers can continue their weekend projects without the worry of a parking charge.