Boynton Beach city leaders are considering changes to the city’s parking ordinance after residents raised concerns about limited parking and difficulty enforcing the rules in different neighborhoods.
The ordinance, which took effect in February, restricts parking on public streets, swales and sidewalks. Violations carry a $25 fine. Residents hosting parties, family gatherings or open houses may temporarily park in their yards for up to 12 hours within a 24-hour period, as long as vehicles do not block traffic.
Some residents say the rules have improved their neighborhoods. Others say the ordinance does not account for differences in street layouts or homeowners association restrictions. Commissioner Aimee Kelley said some District Four residents have few options beyond public streets because their HOAs bar parking in swales or driveway expansions.
Police Chief Joseph DeGiulio questioned whether the exceptions can be enforced consistently. He said officers cannot track how long a vehicle has been parked in one spot for 12 hours. Police Capt. Steve Burdelski proposed barring street parking between midnight and 6 a.m. Officials also discussed no-parking signs on roads where parked cars could block emergency vehicles.
Enforcement in District Two, which has narrow streets and small lots, remains on hold while traffic-engineering plans are developed, city officials said.
Commissioner Thomas Turkin said the ordinance has cleaned up his neighborhood. Leaders agreed any changes should keep gains in public safety, sidewalk access and emergency vehicle clearance.
No changes have been finalized. City staff will work with commissioners and the mayor on possible amendments and will return with options for discussion in December.
