Calgary Parking Authority launches accessible parking awareness campaign

Enforcing accessible parking stall rules Chris Epp reports on the reduced number of tickets issued for handicap parking violations in Calgary.

Just ahead of the busy holiday season where shopping centres will be packed and parking spots in short supply, the Calgary Parking Authority is working to make sure everyone knows where they can and can’t leave their vehicles.

The CPA, in partnership with the City of Calgary’s Advisory Committee on Accessibility, says that the goal of their annual campaign is to make sure that accessible parking stalls are only used by those who are authorized to use them.

Officials say that enforcement officers are always on the lookout for drivers who park in accessible stalls without having a valid placard displayed in their vehicle.

They say people with disabilities have a more difficult time carrying out routine tasks without those spots.

“Accessible parking stalls provide extra space, additional ease of movement and are in close proximity to building entrances,” said Patrick Sweet, with the city’s Advisory Committee, in a release.

This is the 17th year for the campaign that is scheduled to run until the end of December.

So far this year, 2,815 tickets have been issued for illegally parking in designated stalls.

2015’s total was 3,731 tickets, with 391 tickets issued in December alone.

The fine for illegally parking in an accessible stall or loading zone is $300 but, if paid within 10 days, the fine is reduced to $200 or $250 if paid within 30 days.

Residents are urged to report illegally parked vehicles to the CPA’s Customer Solutions Centre by calling 403-537-7100.