Improvements to Accessible Parking Regulations Support Enforcement and Compliance

  • Service NL

April 17, 2019

The Provincial Government has made important amendments to the Accessible Parking Regulations, previously known as the Designated Mobility Impaired Parking Regulations. The regulations were published on Friday, April 12, in the Newfoundland and Labrador Gazette and are effective from that date.

The changes make it easier to conduct enforcement against those who park illegally, and also help support compliance with accessible parking rules. Service NL had representation from the City of St. John’s on potential improvements to the former Designated Mobility Impaired Parking Regulations to support enforcement and compliance regarding issues such as signage and the size of accessible parking spaces.

Fines for illegally parking in a blue zone previously increased from a range of $100 to $400 to a range of $400 to $700, and came into effect on January 3, 2018. The increases were made to enhance deterrence against illegal parking in designated accessible spaces.

Changes to the Highway Traffic Act in fall 2018 allowed for the adoption of standards in the previous Designated Mobility Impaired Parking Regulations. The amendment facilitates regulatory improvements by providing the Minister of Service NL with the authority to adopt codes or standards for accessible parking, including those of the Canadian Standards Association and Transport Canada. The new regulations also include more inclusive language, respectful of persons with disabilities.

Supporting enforcement and compliance of the Accessible Parking Regulations delivers on commitments of The Way Forward for deliver better services and better outcomes for residents. The Way Forward outlines all actions the Provincial Government is taking to achieve a strong, diversified province with a high standard of living, and can be viewed at thewayforward.gov.nl.ca.

Quote
“Regulations are designed to ensure that everyone has access to public spaces, respecting safety, accessibility and convenience for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.”
Honourable Sherry Gambin-Walsh
Minister of Service NL

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Learn more
Newfoundland and Labrador Gazette PDF icon

Proposed Changes to Highway Traffic Act Will Further Improve Public Safety

Bill 39 – An Act to Amend the Highway Traffic Act

Amendments will Improve Accessibility and Equity for All Persons

New Fines for Illegal Blue Zone Parking Effective Today

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Media contact
Krista Dalton
Service NL
729-4748, 685-6492
kristadalton@gov.nl.ca

2019 04 17 11:10 am