Higher Parking Fines Proposed

Major parking fines could be increased considerably if the Boston City Council approves a proposal by Boston Mayor Martin Walsh.

11 parking fines are being considered by the Council.

The potential increases are relevant to resident permit parking tickets from $40 to $60 and no parking zones. Zone A area from $55 to $90, Zone B area from $25 to $50. Double parking Zone A from $45 to $75, Zone B from $30 to $55. No stopping or standing from $55 to $90. Unpaid meter from $25 to $40, over meter time limited from $25 to $40 and parking in a street cleaning zone from $40 to $90, if enacted.

Apparently, the increases stem from the City receiving thousands of complaints on the 311 number regarding illegal parking and a lack of enforcement over the last four years.

If enacted, the new fines schedule will begin July 1, 2008.

The misuse of handicapped parking, if passed, will begin in September 2018 to cut down on placard abuse.

The new law would find those who lie on a handicap plate application or falsely report a lost placard would receive a $500 fine for a first offense and a $1,000 for ongoing offenses.