ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – Drivers in St. Augustine will face much higher fines for illegal parking starting Wednesday.
In late August, the City Commission approved a new ordinance raising the fine for illegal parking from $35 to $100 starting Oct. 1. According to commissioners, this is part of a new push to reduce congestion and improve public safety.
“This amendment addresses concerns that drivers are willing to pay a lower fine to park illegally instead of parking in legal spots and lots, or using free parking and shuttle services, when they are available,” the city said in a news release announcing the increase.
The city said illegal parking becomes a safety issue when it blocks through traffic for first responders and adds to traffic congestion.
The crackdown targets common violations like parking at yellow curbs, blocking fire hydrants, driveways, and loading zones.
One woman who lives in St. Augustine told News4JAX she’s relieved to see the city take action.
“It’s a good idea because it happens all the time. It’s a tourist town. People come into town and sometimes don’t follow the traffic rules,” Pat Konover said.
Drivers will get a warning before facing a ticket.
For questions about parking enforcement, contact the Parking Division at 904.825.1090 or via email at parking@citystaug.com.