An enforcement blitz aimed at accessible parking led to the issuing of over 200 tickets in London.
The blitz was conducted last week by City of London Parking Services and saw officials visit more than 500 properties. According to a news release from the city, 35 accessible parking permits were seized for being either fraudulent, expired, or for being used by someone other than the holder of the permit. A total of 236 tickets that carried fines of $375 were issued for accessible parking violations.
"Designated accessible parking spaces are designed for individuals with accessibility issues and may feature more space between vehicles and are often located near an entrance," the release said. "These spaces are intended for individuals that have been issued an accessible parking permit by the Province. The enforcement blitz was aimed at ensuring that accessible parking spaces and by-law exemptions are being used by persons who are properly complying with the regulations of a valid accessible parking permit."
And while it's incredibly rare for a motorist to appreciate being given a ticket, the manager in charge of parking services at London city hall says most of the drivers they came across were pleased that the city was working to make sure accessible spaces and permits were reserved for those they are meant for.
“A lot of the feedback we heard from Londoners during the enforcement blitz was positive,” said Annette Drost, Manager, Municipal Law Enforcement Services, Parking Services. “Motorists we spoke with appreciated that our staff were out checking identification and expiry dates so that the accessible parking spaces were available for those who need them.”