| Text Release Date and Time: 2009-09-01 08
September Bylaw Education and Enforcement Program
For the month of September the Municipal Bylaw Enforcement Section of the Medicine Hat Police Service will be focusing on parking at and near schools.
With the start of the school year parking around schools is often a concern in many areas. People living near schools often find their driveways and alleys obstructed and school bus zones are often filled with student and parent vehicles.
Bylaw 2434 allows for parking in alleys for a maximum of five (5) minutes for the purposes of loading and unloading passengers, providing that the vehicle does not obstruct the use of the alley by pedestrians or other vehicles. In addition parking in a designated school bus zone is a violation for the times posted at the schools.
It is also important to only park on the public roadways and avoid parking on private property near the school, unless you have permission from the property owner. Many of the schools have parking lots that are designated for staff only or are adjacent to other private properties that have parking lots that are monitored.
Around many of the schools are clearly marked “NO PARKING” zones that should be adhered to at all times. These zones are placed to allow for the visibility and safety of all children around the schools.
The Traffic Safety Act and its regulations prohibit parking within 1.5 meters of a driveway or other vehicle crossing over a sidewalk. In addition parking within 5 meters of Stop or Yield Sign, a Marked Crosswalk or a Fire Hydrant is prohibited.
By obeying these parking laws we can all contribute to a safe community and make sure that all the children coming and going to school can do so in safety.
Violators could be fined as well as have their vehicles towed. Fines for parking violations start at $50.00.
If you have questions related to this or any other bylaw enforcement issue please call our information line at 403-529-8447.
Sgt. Fred Crittenden
Supervisor of Municipal Bylaw Enforcement
Medicine Hat Police Service
403-529-8436 |
Office of the Chief
