PORT ST LUCIE, Fla. (CBS12) — Port St. Lucie leaders are considering major updates to the city’s parking code — changes that could impact everything from box trucks and trailers to where residents can park in front of their homes.
The proposed ordinance would update Chapter 72 of the city code dealing with vehicle stopping, standing, and parking.
Port St. Lucie leaders are considering major updates to the city’s parking code — changes that could impact everything from box trucks and trailers to where residents can park in front of their homes. (PSL)
Some of the proposed changes would increase restrictions, while others would loosen rules that residents and city leaders said no longer made sense.
Under the proposal:
parking fines would increase to $50 for most parking violationsCommercial parking violations would increase to $200 for a first offense, $300 for a second offense, and $400 for additional violationsBox trucks would no longer be allowed to park in residential neighborhoodsEnclosed utility trailers parked in backyards would need to be behind a six-foot privacy fence
At the same time, the city is also proposing several exemptions and changes:
Dually trucks with standard truck beds would be allowed in residential areasCommercial lettering on enclosed trailers would no longer violate city codeLarger open utility trailers would be allowed
City staff said the goal is to improve neighborhood appearance and safety as Port St. Lucie continues to grow.
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Officials also clarified some commonly misunderstood rules.
Residents would still be allowed to park on swales under certain conditions, including parking with the flow of traffic and staying at least 12 inches from the roadway.
The city also said the proposed rules would focus heavily on education before enforcement begins.
If approved, Port St. Lucie plans to launch a six-month education and outreach campaign before actively enforcing the updated rules.
City leaders discussed the ordinance during a first reading in April. The item was returned for a second reading on Monday.