A new city ordinance restricting where oversized vehicles and trailers can park took effect on March 13.
The ordinance prohibits oversized vehicles and all types of trailers—regardless of size—from parking on city streets, alleys, city-owned or maintained parking lots, and other public property. City officials say the change is intended to improve safety, visibility and access on public roadways.
Under the ordinance, a vehicle is considered oversized if it meets any of the following criteria: exceeds 8 feet in height, exceeds 7 1/2 feet in width, exceeds 22 feet in length, or has a manufacturer’s gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or more.
Starting March 13, vehicles and trailers parked in violation of the rule may receive a parking citation and a 24-hour “intent to tow” notice. If the vehicle or trailer is not moved within 24 hours, it may be towed.
The measure also bans all trailers—including utility and camping trailers—from parking on city streets or other public property, regardless of their size.
City officials said oversized vehicles and trailers can obstruct access to public rights-of-way, reduce sight distance and visibility at intersections and crosswalks, and create hazardous traffic conditions that increase the risk of collisions involving motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians.
The ordinance includes several exemptions. These apply to active deliveries and mass transit vehicles; service or repair work being performed on the same city block; vehicles experiencing breakdowns for up to eight hours; emergency and public utility vehicles; passenger and wheelchair-accessible vans; permitted special events; recreational vehicles and camping trailers with paid reservations parked at Pinto Lake City Park; and tow trucks parked in designated industrial zones.
The Watsonville Police Department plans to begin issuing warning notices before enforcement begins.
Once the ordinance takes effect, vehicles found in violation will be subject to citations, a 24-hour intent-to-tow notice and possible towing if they remain parked on city streets or public property.More information about the ordinance and a full list of exemptions is available at bit.ly/4bKFhfd.
