Astoria, OR — Starting next month, drivers in downtown Astoria will face steeper fines for parking violations as the city aims to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow. On Monday, the Astoria City Council voted to increase penalties for various parking infractions, raising fines for overtime parking and improper parking from $10 to $30.
The updated ordinance, which takes effect in January, also significantly boosts penalties for more serious violations. Those caught parking in no-parking zones, leaving vehicles parked for more than 24 hours, or double parking will now be fined $40 — up from the previous $25 fine.
City officials say the increase in fines is necessary to deter drivers from disregarding parking rules, especially in the downtown area, which has seen increased traffic and limited parking availability in recent years. “We believe these changes will encourage better parking practices and help maintain the flow of traffic in our busy downtown district,” said City Councilor Linda Brooks, who supported the amendment.
The new fine structure is part of a broader initiative to improve downtown parking, which has long been a source of frustration for residents and visitors alike. In recent months, city officials have been exploring various strategies to address the growing demand for parking spaces, including the possibility of adding new parking meters and expanding existing lots.
Under the updated ordinance, drivers will also face stricter enforcement of overtime parking, which occurs when vehicles remain in metered spots beyond the allotted time limit. The city has emphasized that it will be stepping up enforcement of the rules, with increased ticketing expected in high-traffic areas.
“We want to make sure that everyone has a fair chance to park, and that means ensuring spaces are available for those who need them,” said Chief of Police Mark Richards. “These fines are intended to encourage compliance with the rules, and we hope they will help alleviate some of the challenges that have come with growing traffic and parking demand.”
While some residents have expressed concerns about the increased fines, others say the change is long overdue. “The downtown area is always crowded, and it’s tough to find a spot,” said local business owner Sarah Mitchell. “I think the increased fines might actually help people park more responsibly and make it easier for everyone to find a space.”
The city plans to launch a public awareness campaign next month to ensure that drivers are aware of the new fines and the updated parking regulations. For now, officials are urging motorists to familiarize themselves with the new rules to avoid costly penalties.
As Astoria continues to grow, city leaders hope that these measures will help balance the needs of residents, visitors, and local businesses while ensuring that the downtown area remains accessible and efficient for everyone.
