The Calgary Parking Authority has already issued over 3000 tickets to people illegally parked in spaces set aside for persons with disabilities and says that number has been increasing steadily over the past few years.
The CPA says that since January 1st, it has issued 3,284 tickets for parking illegally in accessible spaces.
Officials say there has been a steady increase in the number over the last few years:
- 7,130 in 2012
- 6,079 in 2011
- 6,010 in 2010
"Although we typically see an increase in the number of these infractions during cold weather, the increasing trend over the past few years is a growing concern," said Miles Dyck, CPA Manager of Parking Enforcement. "We want to ensure that accessible parking spaces are left for people with disabilities because they rely on them to access our city."
The Parking Authority is asking motorists to follow a few simple guidelines:
- Don't risk parking in an accessible space, even for a few minutes
- Look carefully for accessible parking signs to ensure you don't mistakenly park in a designated stall
- When parked next to an accessible parking stall, ensure that no portion of your vehicle is parked over the line or impeding the use of that stall
The fine for parking in a space or accessible loading zone without a valid permit is $200 if it is paid within 10 days, $250 if it is paid within 30 days and $300 after 30 days.