Colorado Parking Laws: Explained

Parking laws are different in almost every state. Colorado, being one of the most active states in the country, has very specific parking laws and regulations. Knowing all of the specific parking regulations in Colorado is important, especially if you frequently drive in the state. Here is a guide to Colorado parking laws, what you need to know, and how they have changed over the last ten years.

Generally, the parking regulations in Colorado are similar to many other states in the country. However, they are actively enforced, meaning that it’s important for drivers to understand the state’s parking rules. They are designed to ensure the safety of pedestrians and other drivers, smooth traffic operation, and maintain the aesthetic appeal of neighborhoods and streets.

General Parking Regulations

In Colorado, it’s important to be familiar with the general parking regulations that may seem obvious but frequently violate. For example, drivers cannot park their cars within fifteen feet of fire hydrants or intersections. Additionally, they cannot park in front of or within twenty feet of any driveway or entrance to a fire station.

Public streets that are non-residential also have specific time limits for parking a vehicle. Drivers must adhere to the posted time limit; otherwise, they can receive a parking ticket or be towed.

Moreover, in Colorado, it is illegal to park vehicles on unpaved locations like grass or dirt lots. The state has strict rules about parking on sidewalks and bike lanes too. It is illegal to park in these designated areas, and doing so can result in fines or even the vehicle being towed.

The state laws are predominant in Colorado when it comes to parking regulations. However, cities like Denver have separate and specific regulations. The city has complex parking laws regulating street parking, parking garages, and off-street parking.

How Colorado Parking Laws Have Changed in the Last Ten Years

Since 2011, significant changes have occurred to Colorado’s parking regulations. The changes have been made to improve traffic flow within cities, ensure pedestrian safety, and reduce the impact of parking on the environment. Here are some of the most significant changes:

1. Extended Non-residential Parking Time Limits

Several cities in Colorado, including Boulder and Denver, have extended non-residential parking time limits. Before these changes, most non-residential parking lots had a 2-hour limit for parking. Now, people can park for up to four hours, depending on the lot.

2. Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety

Colorado has intensified its pedestrian and bicycle safety measures through changes to parking regulations. One significant change is that drivers are now required to park their cars further from the crosswalks, and they must park in a way that doesn’t block the crosswalk. This regulation ensures the safety of pedestrians and bikers who are crossing the road.

3. Parking on Narrow Roads

Another change to parking laws in Colorado has been the addition of restrictions for parking on narrow roads. If a driver’s vehicle blocks a portion of the road, it can lead to an accident or make it difficult for emergency vehicles to pass through. This regulation mandates that drivers need to park at least two feet from a narrow road’s edge.

4. Parking and the Environment

It’s no secret that car emissions contribute significantly to air and environmental pollution. Colorado has introduced new parking regulations to reduce the impact of parking on the environment. Several cities within Colorado have implemented low-impact development regulations, requiring that parking lots are designed in such a way that they promote environmental sustainability.

5. Parking Garage Regulations

Colorado’s major cities have plenty of parking garages to accommodate drivers. As such, there are now specific regulations regarding parking garages. One of the most significant changes is that parking garages in Denver now must have a minimum of one electric vehicle charging station for every 50 spaces.

6. Transportation Network Companies

Transportation network companies (TNCs) such as Uber and Lyft have become increasingly prominent modes of transport in Colorado. In 2019, TNCs were required to have a valid permit from the state. Additionally, TNC drivers are required to adhere to specific parking regulations, including using designated pickup and drop-off areas.

7. Residential Parking Permits

Several cities within Colorado have established residential parking permit zones. These zones are enforced during specific times of the day, and they are designed to ensure residents have priority parking spots within their neighborhood. The permits are issued to residents and their guests, and they must be displayed on their vehicles.

Conclusion

Colorado parking laws are designed to keep pedestrians, drivers, and the environment safe. They are enforced, and drivers can expect to receive fines and even have their vehicles towed if they violate state or city regulations. Knowing all of the specific parking rules in Colorado is essential for drivers in the state to avoid unnecessary expenses. It is also important to keep up with any legal changes and updates since laws can change frequently, even within a few years.

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Knowing the Colorado Parking Laws

Some laws are taken for granted, you know? It’s a matter of fact. The situation’s no different in Colorado, so be sure you know what those Colorado parking laws are to avoid any citations you might not have been aware of:

What Are Some of the Most Important CO Parking Laws?

Easy. There are three statutes under the Colorado parking law specifically dealing with parking:

1. The CO Parking Laws of Starting a Parked Vehicle

2. The CO Parking Laws of Parking With the Intention of Leaving Vehicle

3. The CO Parking Laws of Parking in Prohibited Places

As far as Colorado parking laws go, you have to be aware of them specifically for a good number of reasons. Starting with….

The CO Parking Laws of Starting a Parked Vehicle

According to the statute in regard to Colorado parking laws, no person should be allowed to start a parked vehicle until there’s reasonable safety.

What is reasonable safety? That could constitute anything like:

1. Congested Traffic

2. Environmental Concerns

3. Even the Weather

If it’s proven that a driver started the car without taking these precautions, believe it or not – under Colorado parking laws – that driver can be issued a Class A parking violation.

What About the Colorado Parking Law of Parking With Intention of Leaving a Vehicle?

The key to that Colorado parking law is about where you intend on leaving the vehicle. Prohibited areas would include:

1. Business or Residential Districts on Paved Roads

2. Business or Residential Districts on Improved Roads

3. Or the Main-Traveled Part of a Highway

The only way to legally leave your vehicle in any of these areas would be proper emergency lights as stipulated by the Colorado parking law. This would involve, of course, emergency situations where suitable parking hasn’t become available.

And as For Prohibited Places Outside the Realm of Emergency….

Unless otherwise directed by law enforcement to place your vehicle for the purposes of avoiding traffic, no driver with a vehicle can park a car in any of these areas:

1. A Sidewalk

2. An Intersection

3. A Crosswalk

4. Between a Safety Zone and Curb

5. Next or Opposite a Street Excavation or Obstruction

6. A Roadway Side at the Edge or Curb of a Street

7. A Bridge, Elevated Structure, or Highway Tunnel

8. Railroad Tracks

9. A Controlled-Access Highway

10. The Area Between Roadways of a Divided Highway, Including Crossovers

11. Other Areas Prohibiting Parking

Specifically, it also lists in regard to safety zones and curbs that a vehicle can’t be parked with thirty feet of points on a curb opposite those specific ends of a safety zone.

And according to the Colorado parking law, no vehicle may be parked….

1. Within 5 Feet of a Public or Private Driveway

2. Within 15 Feet of a Fire Hydrant

3. Within 20 Feet of a Crosswalk

4. Within 30 Feet of a Flashing Beacon, Signal, Stop Sign, or Yield Sign

5. Within 20 Feet of a Fire Station Driveway

6. Within 50 Feet of a Rail for a Railroad Crossing

 

 

Quick Guide to North Carolina Parking Laws

 

 

NC Parking Laws

 

 

There are multiple North Carolina parking laws that address different methods of parking in different locations.  Most NC Parking Laws are located in Chapter 20 Motor Vehicles of the NC Statutes, and some of these laws are discussed within this article.  

 

 

Local communities may adopt ordinances that extend on state law, and the fines for such offenses will vary as well—especially in metropolitan areas and educational institutions.  Under North Carolina parking laws, you have the right to appeal a ticket, but if were parked in a location that strictly forbids parking, you basically have no chance for an appeal.  

 

 

Specific North Carolina Parking Laws

 

 

There are several laws the directly address certain types of parking.  Specific laws will be discussed below, but any driver should be aware of general, yet commonly violated NC Parking Laws: 

 

 

• parking on sidewalk

 

• within 25 feet of an intersection 

 

• within 15 of a fire hydrant 

 

• crossing the center line to park

 

• parking over marked lines in designated areas

 

• parking in loading zones

 

• parking outside of your designated meter limit

 

• parking without a residential permit

 

• within 5 five feet of a driveway 

 

• parking outside or marked spaces

 

 

Chapter 20-161

 

 

This statute of Carolina-parking laws addresses leaving a vehicle unattended on a highway.  Some specific cases discussed within these North Carolina parking laws fall below: 

 

 

• no person can park or leave a car standing on the shoulder of a highway with a speed limit of 45 mph or greater or on a bridge with a posted limit below 45 mph except in an temporary emergency situation 

 

• the vehicle cannot be temporarily left on the section of highway unless the car can be seen for at least 200 feet in each direction

 

• the operator of  a truck must use proper warning devices and signals under all NC Parking Laws

 

• the person leaving their vehicle on the side of the highway must notify proper law enforcement to make sure the vehicle is eventually safely removed

 

• if the vehicle is left on the highway or rest area for more than 24 hours, the vehicle may be removed unless local law enforcement has been notified of a removal time in the near future

 

• if the stopped vehicle has been involved in a serious accident, the vehicle shall not be removed to supply investigative evidence

 

 

There are many other North Carolina parking laws under Chapter 20, and you can visit the following link to research.

 

 

Paying Parking Tickets Online

 

 

If you have violated one or several NC Parking Laws, you have the ability to pay your ticket online with several different resources.  One option after violating North Carolina parking laws is to visit official website under the NC Court System and click the linked called “payNCticket.” 

 

 

The other option includes calling your town’s Parking Services Division.  For example, a person in Chapel Hill who has received a parking ticket can call (919) 932-2912 to pay their ticket.  

 

 

 

Quick Guide to Arkansas Parking Law

Arkansas Parking Laws

The majority of Arkansas parking law is located within Title 27, Chapter 51 of the state’s revised code.  There are other laws that regard parking laws in local jurisdictions, and the fines within these jurisdictions will vary—especially in metropolitan areas and education institutions.  Arkansas parking laws indicate that a person who has received a ticket are allowed to appeal the fine, but these appeals are often very difficult to prove.  

This article will discuss general Arkansas parking law and information regarding paying your ticket.  For more information, regard the complete list of parking by searching within the state’s revised code.  

Specific Arkansas Parking Laws

Section 27-51-1302 of Arkansas parking law provides general laws for prohibited parking in the entire state.  Local jurisdictions may modify these state laws to provide for more safety, but the general prohibitions under this section are listed below: 

1. on a sidewalk

2. in front of public or private driveway

3. within an intersection

4. within 15 feet of a fire hydrant

5. on a crosswalk

6. within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection

7. within 30 feet of a flashing beacon, stop sign, or any traffic-control signal located at the side of a roadway

8. Between a safety zone or 30 feet from the ends of the zone

9. within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing

10. within 20 feet of fire department’s driveway or 75 feet if post by fire department

11. alongside or opposite any street excavation 

12. on the roadway side of any vehicle stopped or parked at the edge of a curb

13. upon a bridge or other elevated structure upon a highway or in a tunnel

14. at any place where signs prohibit

15. on the shoulders, median, ramps, or any highway rights-of-way along an interstate or fully controlled access highway except in designated parking areas

There are multiple other Arkansas parking laws.  As mentioned above, most Arkansas parking law is located in Chapter 51 of Title 17 of the revised code.  An important rule that most people fail to regard—and which causes a large number of accidents—is section 27-51-1307.  This Arkansas parking laws states the following: 

“No person shall open the door of a motor vehicle on the side available to moving traffic unless and until it is reasonably safe to do so, nor shall any person leave a door open on the side of a vehicle available to moving traffic for a period of time longer than necessary to load and unload passengers.”

Fines for Violation of Arkansas Parking Laws

If you have violated an Arkansas parking law, you can either pay your ticket at your local municipal court, or you can pay the fine online.  Arkansas parking law allows a person to pay their ticket online under the website of the Arkansas Online Court Payment.  The link to the website is provided.

Brief Overview of Kansas Parking Laws 

Kansas Parking Laws

The majority of Kansas parking law is located within §8-1571 of the state’s revised statutes.  There are other laws that regard parking laws in local jurisdictions, and the fines within these jurisdictions will vary—especially in metropolitan areas and education institutions.  Kansas parking laws indicate that a person who has received a ticket is allowed to appeal the fine, but these appeals are often very difficult to prove.  

This article will discuss general Kansas parking law and information regarding paying your ticket.  For more information, regard the complete list of parking laws by searching within the state’s revised statutes.

Specific Kansas Parking Laws

§8-1571 Stopping, standing or parking prohibited in specified places of Kansas parking law provides general laws for prohibited parking in the entire state.  Local jurisdictions may modify these state laws to provide for more safety, but the general prohibitions under this section are listed below: 

1. on the roadway side of any vehicle stopped or parked at the edge or curb of a street 

2. on a sidewalk

3. within an intersection 

4. on a crosswalk 

5. between a safety zone and with 30 feet from the ends of a safety zone

6. alongside or opposite any street excavation that would obstruct traffic 

7. upon any bridge, elevated highway, or in a highway tunnel 

8. on railroad track

9. on any controlled-access highway

10. in medians or crossovers

11. at any place that prohibits parking

12. in front of a public or private driveway

13. within 15 feet of a fire hydrant

14. within 30 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection 

15. within 30 feet of a stop sign or traffic signal

16. within 20 feet of a fire station or 75 feet if posted by fire department

17. within 50 feet of a railroad crossing

Other Kansas Parking Laws

A large percentage of Kansas parking law addresses violations for parking or restricting disabled persons from parking in an appropriate spot.  For example, §8-1129 states a person is violating a Kansas parking law if they perform any of the following actions: 

• park in any place designated for a person with a special license plate, permanent placard,  individual identification card, or valid temporary placard

• stop, stand, or park a vehicle so that it blocks an access entrance

• so that it blocks a disabled parking stall

• so that it blocks an access aisle 

• stop, stand, or park in an access aisle between or beside designated parking space

If a person violates any of the Kansas parking laws above, they can receive a fine from $50 to $100.  

Can I Pay my Parking Ticket Online in Kansas?

Kansas parking law allows a person to pay their citation online, but only some counties allow electronic submission.  Perform a simple search to locate the website of your county court and regard whether they have a section for paying citations.  

 

Quick Guide to Iowa Parking Law 

Iowa Parking Laws

There are multiple Iowa parking laws that address different methods of parking in different locations.  Most Iowa parking laws are located in Chapter 321 of the Iowa state code, and some of these laws are discussed within this article.  

Local communities may adopt ordinances that extend on IA parking laws, and the fines for such offenses will vary as well—especially in metropolitan areas and educational institutions.  Under Iowa parking law, you have the right to appeal a ticket.  However, if you were parked in a location that strictly forbids parking, you basically have no chance for an appeal for violating the IA parking laws.  

Specific Iowa Parking Laws

There are many Iowa parking laws that directly address certain kinds of parking in IA.  For example, Iowa parking law under section 321.358 states that no person can stop, stand, or park a vehicle in any of the following areas: 

1. on a sidewalk, except for a bicycle

2. in front of a public or private driveway

3. within an intersection

4. within five feet of a fire hydrant

5. on a crosswalk

6. within ten feet of a stop sign, flashing beacon, or traffic signal

7. between a safety zone or 10 feet from either end of the safety zone

8. within 50 feet of a railroad crossing

9. with 25 feet of a fire station entrance or 75 feet if posted by the station and local IA parking laws

10. alongside or opposite of any street with excavation when stopping would obstruct traffic flow

11. on the roadway side of any vehicle stopped or parked at the edge of the street or curb

12. upon any bridge or other elevated structure on a highway outside of city limits or within a highway tunnel

13. at any place signs and local IA parking laws prohibit parking

14. on a street when snow is specified to be removed

15. in front of a curb cut or ramp

Iowa parking law under 321.357, 321.354, and more specify when a police officer is allowed to remove a car in certain circumstances.  Iowa parking law 321.357 states any police officer is allowed to remove an unattended vehicle from a bridge, causeway, or tunnel if that car is otherwise parked legally but obstructing traffic.  

Iowa parking law under code 321.354 indicates when a police officer is allowed to remove an attended or unattended vehicle from a highway.  The car must usually be parked 20 feet away from moving traffic (if possible) and be visible for 200 feet in both directions according to IA parking laws.  

Paying Parking Tickets Online

Iowa parking laws allow a violator to pay a parking ticket online within most counties.  You’ll have to find your county court and see whether they allow online payments according to local IA parking laws.

If the court does allow online payments, Iowa parking laws also let people search whether their payment has been officially filed.  In order to check if your ticket has been filed, click on the link.

If you are going to contest the citation for violating the IA parking laws, don’t make an online payment.  Most payments online have no refunds once sent through.  

 

A brief guide to Vermont parking laws

When your vehicle comes to a stop, this does not mean your responsibilities as a driver are at an end. A familiarity with Vermont parking law is important to avoid receiving tickets for violations. Failure to be aware of VT parking laws may lead to financial penalties.

Some Vermont parking laws are common nationwide. You are not allowed to leave your vehicle:

• Parked in a crosswalk

• Parked in an intersection

• On a bridge

• In a tunnel

As in every state, Vermont parking law regarding parallel parking requires you to maintain a safe distance from the road. The right wheel must be no further than one foot from the curb. VT parking laws forbid you from parking on an interstate highway. If vehicle malfunction leaves your automobile stranded there, Vermont parking laws require you to move out of the way of traffic and onto the shoulder if at all possible.

Some aspects of VT parking laws in this area regarding the specific distance you may park away from certain objects. Vermont parking law in such cases specifies distances to maintain which may differ from other states' guidelines. These include:

• You may not park any closer than 50 feet away from a railroad crossing. As in every state, Vermont parking laws prohibit you from parking on the tracks.

• You may not leave your vehicle any closer than six feet away from a fire hydrant.

• Vermont parking law prohibits you from leaving your vehicle any closer to a crosswalk at an intersection than 20 feet.

• You may not park any closer than 30 feet to a traffic signal or stop sign.

• Vermont parking laws state you may park no closer than 20 feet away from a fire. station driveway on the same side of the street or 75 feet away on the opposite side.

While keeping such regulations in mind, it is also important to be mindful of all posted notices. Vermont parking law may be indicated by signs stating you cannot park on a specific block or portion thereof. Additionally, VT parking laws prohibit parking in a zone designated for the handicapped unless you have a permit which allows you to do so. Vermont parking laws likewise forbid you from parking in areas which are designated biking lanes, even if not indicated by a sign.

Exercise common sense when leaving your vehicle. While Vermont parking law does not technically require you to make sure your vehicle is visible from 150 feet in any direction, doing so is always a good idea and will help you avoid accidents. Be aware that doing so may not only lead to a ticket being issued for unsafe parking violations of VT parking laws. Violations of Vermont parking laws may also lead to litigation if it leads to an accident by another party. In such cases, under VT parking laws you will not only be subject to financial penalties but may have to make an additional settlement payment in court.

 

A brief guide to North Dakota parking laws

A driver's responsibilities do not cease when they are no longer in motion. You must be aware of every North Dakota parking law or risk receiving a ticket. These can result in financial penalties which can easily be avoided. Some North Dakota parking laws are common sense and are true nationwide. Others are specific to the state and will require you to consult its driving manual.

North Dakota parking laws which are true regardless of which state you are include:

• You may not leave your vehicle in front of a driveway or railroad

• On a bridge

• In the middle of an intersection

More specific aspects of North Dakota parking law concern how close to certain features you may leave a vehicle. These distances are different in every state. Be aware of the following North Dakota parking laws:

• It is illegal to park your vehicle within ten feet of a crosswalk at an intersection

• North Dakota parking law does not allow you leave your vehicle any closer than ten feet to a fire hydrant

• You may not park your vehicle within 15 feet of any traffic signal which is on the side of the road, such as a stop sign or flashing traffic signal. The purpose of this North Dakota parking law is to make sure you do not accidentally obstruct these important guides for drivers.

One law specific to the state forbids you from leaving your vehicle next to another parallel parked automobile while blocking the street. While this kind of double parking is allowed in many states, North Dakota parking laws forbid it in all situations. If you are parallel parking, your right wheel should be within one foot of the sidewalk curb.

Some rules require you to use your judgment. For example, North Dakota parking laws do not allow someone to park next to or across the street from road work in a way that would obstruct the flow of traffic. Since there is no specified distance for how close your vehicle must be, you must look carefully before parking to make sure you have taken reasonable steps to obey this rule.

There is no North Dakota parking law specifically prohibiting you from leaving your vehicle on the highway. However, there is no reason to do so unless you have had an automotive malfunction. In such cases, North Dakota parking laws require you to get your vehicle out of the flow of traffic. If it is before sunrise or after sunset, you should make sure your automobile is properly illuminated from both the front and back to avoid the risk of collision.

In addition to studying North Dakota parking law, you should keep your eyes open at all times for additional instructions which should be followed. For example, you should never park anywhere if a "no parking" sign indicates you are forbidden to do so. 

Texas Parking Laws: An Overview

Parking laws form an integral part of our daily life. Most of us rely on our vehicles for transportation, and so, parking laws play a crucial role in ensuring that vehicles are parked safely and correctly. However, different states have different parking laws that drivers need to follow.

This article provides an overview of the parking laws in Texas and the updates made in the last ten years. The purpose is to provide readers with a general understanding of the parking laws in Texas and the potential consequences of violating them.

Overview of Texas Parking Laws

Texas is known for its lenient driving and parking laws. However, it is essential to note that some parking laws still exist, and it is crucial to follow them to avoid getting into trouble with the law. The parking laws differ depending on the location and nature of the area being parked in. Below are some of the common laws that all Texas drivers should know.

1. Disabled Parking Spaces

Disabled parking spaces have become a major concern in Texas. As such, the Texas Parking laws regarding disabled parking spaces have been amended to cater to the needs of those with disabilities. The law states that reserved parking spaces should be appropriately marked, and only vehicles displaying a valid disabled parking permit should park in the space. Violating this law attracts a fine of up to $1,000.

Moreover, the law also prohibits modifying a disabled parking permit or using someone else’s disabled parking permit. This violation is associated with severe penalties that can lead to criminal charges.

2. Parking Zones

Texas parking laws prohibit parking vehicles in specific zones, such as:

a. Bus Stops: It is illegal to park a vehicle in a bus stop or a zone that is reserved for public transportation. This violation can lead to a fine of $200 or more, depending on the severity of the offense.

b. Fire Lanes: Parking in a fire lane is illegal, and it can pose a serious safety risk for the public. In most cases, the law enforcement officers can tow the vehicle immediately without prior notice.

c. Red Zone: Parking in a red zone, which is commonly known as a “No Parking Zone,” is illegal in Texas. It is important to note that a red zone is different from a fire lane.

3. Parking on Sidewalks

The Texas parking laws prohibit parking on sidewalks, crosswalks, and bicycle paths. This violation can lead to a fine of up to $60 or more, depending on the severity of the offense. Moreover, parking on a sidewalk can impede the movement of pedestrians and wheelchair users, which can be dangerous.

4. Parking on Private Property

The Texas parking laws require a property owner’s consent before anyone can park on their private property. This law ensures that property owners have control over who parks on their property. However, some property owners allow public parking in their lots, but drivers must follow specific guidelines.

Updates on Texas Parking Laws in the Last Ten Years

1. Off-street Parking Regulations

The off-street parking regulations in Texas have been updated to ensure that businesses provide adequate parking spaces for their clients. The law requires new commercial developments to have a parking ratio of one parking space per 300 square feet.

2. Handicap Accessibility Regulations

The Texas Accessibility Standards laws have undergone several updates to ensure that parking spaces designed for disabled individuals meet all the standards. The law now requires that all new lots and garages comply with the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

3. Distracted Driving Laws

The Texas legislature recently passed laws that prohibit the use of electronic devices while driving, including GPS and texting while driving. The purpose of the law is to promote safe driving and reduce accidents that occur due to distracted driving.

4. Moving Violation Regulations

The new parking laws in Texas include increased penalties for moving violations. The fine for parking in a handicap parking spot has increased from $500 to $1,000, and the penalty for parking in a fire lane has increased from $50 to $200.

5. Parking for Electric Vehicles

The state legislature passed laws that allow commercial property owners to reserve spaces for electric vehicles charging stations. This new law aims to promote the use of electric vehicles and support the development of clean energy.

6. Autonomous Vehicles Regulations

Texas Parking laws have been updated to cater to the use of autonomous vehicles. The law now allows the testing and use of self-driving vehicles, but with specific regulations to ensure safety for all road users.

Consequences of Violating Texas Parking Laws

Violating Texas parking laws can lead to serious consequences, such as hefty fines, parking boots, or towing of the vehicle. Additionally, some violations can also lead to criminal penalties, including imprisonment.

Conclusion

The Texas parking laws aim to regulate and manage public parking spaces to ensure the safety and convenience of all road users. Therefore, it is essential to follow the rules and regulations to avoid getting into trouble with the law. This article provides an overview of the parking laws in Texas and the updates made in the last ten years. Understanding the laws can help drivers avoid possible consequences

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Quick Guide to Texas Parking Laws 

How much will I receive for a Parking Ticket in Texas?

There are Texas parking laws regarding statewide prices for certain kinds of parking violations.  Texas parking law prohibits fines from being unreasonable, but these fines can be quite heavy in certain places—especially if you receive a citation in a large metropolis area, business district, or state university facility.  In order to obtain prices, research Texas parking laws in your specific city or university.

Specific Texas Parking Laws

All Texas parking law is listed under the state’s Transportation Code.  Section 545.301 provides specific laws for parking outside of a business or residence district.  Some of these laws are described below:

1. An operator may not leave a vehicle parked outside a business or residence district unless leaving the vehicle off the main traveled part of the highway is not practicable, the vehicle does not obstruct the roadway, and the vehicle is clearly visible for at least 200 feet.

2. This Texas parking law does not apply to a vehicle that is disabled, to certain vehicles transporting materials, and tow trucks.

Section 545.302 provides very specific Texas parking laws.  Some of these laws are described below:

(a) An operator may not park a vehicle: 

• on the roadway side of a vehicle stopped or parked at the edge or curb of a street

• on a sidewalk

• in an intersection

• on a crosswalk

• between a safety zone and the adjacent curb or within 30 feet on the curb opposite of the safety zone

• alongside or opposite a street excavation or if the parked vehicle would obstruct traffic

• on a bridge or in a tunnel

• on a railroad track

• where an official sign or other Texas parking law prohibits parking

(b) Under Texas parking laws, a person cannot temporarily park: 

• in front of a public or private driveway

• within 15 feet of a fire hydrant

• within 20 feet of a crosswalk

• with 30 feet of a flashing signal

• within 20 feet of a driveway entrance

• with 50 feet of the nearest fail or railroad crossing

• where an official sign prohibits parking

Section 545.303 provides very specific Texas parking laws: 

• a car must be parked parallel to a curb and be parked with 18 inches of the curb

• a local authority by ordinance or Texas parking law may permit angle parking

• the Texas Department of Transportation may place signs anywhere they believe parking may obstruct parking

There are a number of Texas parking laws that tell companies how they are allowed to remove an illegally parked vehicle.  To find a similar Texas parking law, visit the official website of the Texas legislature.

How do I pay for a ticket online? 

Not all districts allow a person to pay for a parking ticket online.  However, larger metropolitan areas like Houston and Dallas have a Ticket Payment System that allows a person to pay a parking ticket if they have the ticket number, offense date, and a valid credit card.  You can do a quick search on the internet by searching for a ticket payment system in your local area.

A Quick Guide to Speeding Tickets in Texas 

Speeding Tickets: Texas

If you receive a speeding ticket in Texas, you will be subject to multiple laws and fines according to how fast you were going and the amount of speeding tickets in Texas you’ve have before.  This article will describe several speeding laws in Texas, speed limits, and fines associated with a speeding ticket in Texas.  For more information on Texas traffics fines, regard the recommended articles on this website.  

Speeding Tickets in Texas

A resident will not receive a speeding ticket in Texas unless they break Tran. Code Chapter 545.351(a).  The basic speed rule states that no vehicle can travel at a speed greater than what is reasonable or acceptable under certain circumstances. 

Under Tran. Code 545.352, a person is considered to be traveling at an unreasonable speed if they are traveling about the speed limits in the following areas: 

1. 70 mph during the daytime on numbered highways outside an urban district for passenger cars and motorcycles

2. 65 mph during the nighttime on numbered highways outside an urban district for passenger cars and motorcycles

3. 60 mph during the daytime on highways that are not numbered and are outside an urban district

4. 55 mph during the nighttime unnumbered highways outside of an urban district

5. 60 mph outside of an urban district unless another speed limit has been posted under Tran. Code Chapter 545.352(b)(4).  

6. 30 mph in an urban district

7. 15 mph in an alley

Traffic Fines in Texas

If you receive a speeding ticket in Texas, you will receive a surcharge along with your fine.  If you receive multiple traffic tickets in Texas, your surcharges will increase and you will receive more points.  

According to Texas law, a surcharge will be added to a speeding ticket in Texas if the driver has accumulated 6 or more points on their driving record.  If the driver’s speeding tickets in Texas have caused the driver to accumulate six points, they will have to pay $100 and $25 for each additional point.  

Additionally, a person who accumulates multiple speeding tickets in Texas may be subject to license suspension.  If a person has received 4 or more speeding tickets in Texas in the last year or 7 or more in the last two years, they may have their license suspended. 

A speeding ticket in Texas is usually much less severe than in other states.  The fines associated with a speeding ticket in Texas and in Harris County in particular are listed below: 

1) Speeding Ticket in Texas Posted Zone- 1 to 5 over equals $170; 6 to 9 over equals $180; 10 to 14 over equals $200; 15-19 over equals $245; 20 to 20 over equals $265; 30 or more over equals $300

2) Speeding Ticket in Texas School Zone- 1 to 5 over equals $220; 6 to 9 over equals $235; 10 to 14 over equals $250; 15 to 19 over equals $270; 20 to 29 over equals $295; 30 or more over equals $325

 

Quick Guide to Speeding Tickets in Florida 

Speeding Tickets: Florida

If you have received a speeding ticket in Florida, you must pay the fine or appeal the violation and appear in traffic court.  If you do not pay a fine or appear in court, you can have a warrant put out for your arrest, and your license will likely be suspended.  In this article, you will find information on speeding laws in FL, as well as examples of fine amounts in certain districts in Florida.  For more information on speeding tickets in Florida, visit the official website of the Florida Department of Transportation.  

Statutes and Speeding Tickets: Florida 

There are numerous statutes that apply to a speeding ticket in Florida.  A general rule under Statute 316.183(1) states that “no person shall drive a vehicle at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions and having regard to the actual and potential hazard than existing.”  

Generally, the statutory speed limit in the state is 70 miles per hour on highways, 55 miles per hour in all locations except as noted, and 30 miles per hour in business and residential districts.  

For minimum speed limit laws, there are several statutes that address the issue: 

• 316.183(5)- “No person shall drive a motor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic.”

• 316.183(2)- states the minimum speed on interstate and defense highways with four lanes is 40 miles per hour 

• 316.081(2)- “A person, driving at less than the normal speed of traffic, shall drive in the right-hand lane then available for traffic or as close as practicable to the right-hand curb or edge of the roadway.” 

There are several other statutes that address speeding tickets in Florida as well.  These statutes address how long a license can be revoked because of a speeding ticket in Florida, and even procedures for criminal penalties.  Another miscellaneous law that addresses an accident and a speeding ticket in Florida is statute 318.14(1), which states that a person is required to perform 120 hours of community service if the speeding offense caused death to another person.  

Amount of Fine for Speeding Ticket in Florida

As mentioned at the beginning of the article, speeding tickets in Florida will vary according to the county in which they occurred.  One way to reduce the any speeding ticket in Florida is to go through traffic school.  If you go through traffic school, your insurance coverage will not go up and an insurance company cannot refuse to cover you. 

Additionally, going through traffic school will reduce your speeding tickets in Florida.  The listing provided below shows what your speeding ticket in Florida would be like around the Orange County area with and without traffic school:  

With traffic school

• 6 to 9 mph over- $76.00

• 10 to 14 over- $137.50

• 15 to 19 over-$158.00

• 20 to 20 over- $178.50

• 30 mph or more over- $260.50 

Without Traffic School 

• 6 to 9 mph over- $80.50

• 10 to 14 over- $155.50

• 15 to 19 over-$180.50

• 20 to 20 over- $205.50

• 30 mph or more over-$305.50