Ottawa issues daytime winter weather parking ban for Saturday

The city of Ottawa issues a winter weather parking ban when there is at least 7 cm of snow in the forecast.

Motorists are being asked not to park on city of Ottawa streets on Saturday, to allow crews to clean up following this weekend's major winter storm.

The city of Ottawa has issued a daytime winter weather parking ban for Saturday (Jan. 13) between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m.

The parking ban comes after Environment Canada declared a winter storm warning for Ottawa, calling for 15 to 25 cm of snow on Friday night and Saturday.

The city of Ottawa says the daytime parking ban may be extended if additional time is needed to complete winter road operations.

During a winter weather parking ban, parking is prohibited on city streets so crews can plow easily and effectively.

Vehicles parked on the street during a ban may be ticketed by Ottawa Bylaw officers. On-street monthly parking permit holders are exempt from this restriction when they are parked in residential parking permit zones.

During Wednesday's daytime winter weather parking ban, Bylaw Services officers issued 4,536 tickets to motorists parking on city streets in violation of the ban.

Vehicles violating the winter weather parking ban may receive a $125 ticket, with an early payment option of $105.

"The bans are enacted to help City crews efficiently clear snow from roads with the goal of making them as safe as possible for all road users," Roger Chapman, Director of Bylaw and Regulatory Services, said in a statement to CTV News Ottawa.

"Parking bans in Ottawa are necessary for ensuring that roadways remain clear for various essential services, including snow removal, street cleaning, and emergency vehicle access. The safety of residents and visitors is the City’s priority, and we thank everyone for their co-operation when a winter parking ban is implemented."

Residents will have access to select OC Transpo park and rides as well as certain recreation centres to temporarily park. The park and rides available are:

Parking is still allowed on commercial main streets, including Bank Street, Rideau Street, Elgin Street and Somerset Street, though drivers must still observe all signage and payment requirements.

Vehicles may remain parked at the following sites for the duration of the ban, and must be removed after the city announces that the ban has been lifted:

Residents can visit the city's website for more information on parking bans.

With files from CTV News Ottawa's Will Eltherington