In recent weeks, it seems the government have been in a battle regarding the parking ordinance. With vehicles being towed and clamped, people grew concerned about the legality behind traffic services.
However, in recent days, we spoke to Cletus Taylor, Director Of Los Santos Traffic Services about the matter. We also discovered some important developments in regards to the parking ordinance.
New Parking Ordinance
The parking ordinance has been completely rewritten for 2024 and includes several key changes following public feedback. These changes will improve both the parking situation in Los Santos and also the penalties towards vehicle owners.
You can view the Full Parking Enforcement Ordinance here.
In essence, many of the parking violations that resulted in your vehicle being removed, have been replaced with penalties in the form of a fine. This comes direct from the Los Santos Government.
Key changes include;
§ 201 – Prohibited Parking (Major Offenses)
Vehicles may not be parked in the following locations and will be subject to immediate towing:
a. Within or within 5 feet of any intersection or crosswalk [PCT001.1]
b. On private property without authorization [PCT001.2]
c. Abandoned on any roadway [PCT001.3]
d. With three or more wheels on the sidewalk [PCT001.4]
e. Within ten feet of a bus stop [PCT001.5]
f. In marked no-parking zones [PCT001.6]
g. In tunnels, on bridges, or on highways [PCT001.7]
h. Blocking emergency services, exits, or fire lanes [PCT001.8]
§ 202 – Citation Violations (Medium Offenses)
The following violations will result in citations with specified penalties:
a. Expired parking slip in pay-to-park zone [$250] [VC002.1]
b. Parking against flow of traffic [$500] [VC002.2]
c. Snow-route violations during plowing operations [$500 + Impound] [VC002.3]
d. Parking outside marked spaces [$250] [VC002.4]
e. Parking in construction/maintenance zones [$500 + Impound] [VC002.5]
f. Parking without required special permits [$250 + Impound] [VC002.6]
g. Handicapped zone violations [$500] [VC002.7]
h. Within 15 feet of fire hydrant [$250-$750] [VC002.8]
i. In pay-to-park lots without payment [$500] [VC002.9]
j. In maximum timed zones beyond posted time limits [$500] [VC002.10]
Note: Fire hydrant violation fines increase by $250 for each repeat offense by same registered owner, maximum $750
Cletus Taylor, Los Santos Traffic Services Director
Following the release of the new parking ordinance, we spoke to Director Cletus Taylor about traffic enforcement and towing in Los Santos. He said;
“Parking enforcement is about keeping our city tidy. People shouldn’t be parking their vehicles across sidewalks and driveways.
As a vehicle owner, you are responsible for your own vehicle and parking. It’s important that you are mindful of what you are blocking or interrupting.
In recent days, the parking ordinance has been rewritten by the government. Personally, I feel that the penalties for parking offences in Los Santos were viable. However, the new changes will help vehicle owners to keep their vehicles, on the road. Where they belong.
Make no mistake though. We don’t care about your position. Your knowledge. Your job title or role in the community. Parking enforcement is not to be taken lightly.
We will continue to enforce strict traffic laws against vehicles in Los Santos. We will also use the full strength of the law against those who disrupt or hinder our traffic operators.
Do the right thing. Park properly and enjoy what this great city has to offer.”
What Does This Mean?
Overall, the parking ordinance has been revised to reduce the amount of towing in Los Santos. This keeps vehicles on the road, and reduces the costs to vehicle owners. A positive change.
We will continue to liaise with the government on their parking ordinance and policies as we continue into Q4 2024.