From the Harford County Department of Community Services:
If you are one of the thousands of Harford County residents hitting the stores and circling the parking lot for any available spaces, you know the temptation of parking “just for a minute” in a handicapped (correctly known as accessible) space if one is free. A minute may not seem like much time, but it is just long enough for you to receive the unwanted gift of a $120 parking fine if you fail to display the designated parking placard or license plate required to park in that spot.
During the holiday shopping season, from November 27, 2009 to January 1, 2010, deputies with the Sheriff’s Office and law enforcement officers in the municipalities will be checking to make sure that vehicles parked in accessible spaces have the parking placard or designated license plate displayed. It is important to note that in addition to displaying the placard or license plate, drivers may also be asked by law enforcement officers to produce a copy of their medical certification.
Additionally, anyone committing fraud or misrepresenting themselves when using a parking placard for people with disabilities is subject to a fine of up to $500. Deputies will be patrolling to make sure the placard or plates are up-to-date and accurate. In other words, you will be caught if you are using a placard or a vehicle with a designated license plate and you are not the person to whom the placard or vehicle was issued.
So as you’re driving around looking for a parking space, please remember that a motorist with a disability needs the accessible parking space and may not be able to shop, dine or access businesses if their designated spots are taken by their non-disabled counterparts. For that person, it’s not just a right, it’s a necessity. Please keep in mind “’tis the season to remember you share your community with others.” So as you’re completing your holiday shopping, spend your money on gifts for your loved ones, not on a parking ticket.
Fines by Municipalities:
Aberdeen: $120.00
Bel Air: $120.00
Havre de Grace: $50.00
Harford County: $120.00 (outside municipality/inside Harford County)
