Winter parking ban starts Sunday

Halloween party-goers might be in for an extra fright if they leave their cars parked on the streets later than 2 a.m. Sunday, when the city's snow parking ban goes into effect.

Parking is prohibited on city streets between the hours of 2 and 6 a.m. from Nov. 1 through April 1. Although it is commonly called the snow parking ban, the city ordinance establishing the ban does not refer to any accumulation of snow.

The fines for parking on the street during the parking ban are $20 for the first offense, $50 for the second offense, and $75 for the third and subsequent offenses during the winter season. In addition to the $75 fine, for the third or additional violations the offending vehicle will be towed away, whether or not the tickets have been paid.

The police department will begin enforcing the ban Sunday at 2 a.m., which will be the overnight from Oct. 31.