County increases parking fines for first time since 2006

Posted On: October 6, 2020

With growing complaints, particularly from Southeast Volusia, about people clogging side streets and blocking driveways by parking illegally and then walking to the beach, officials have identified at least part of the problem: It’s cheaper to pay the ticket than it is to buy a day pass to park on the beach.

But not anymore.

On Tuesday, the Volusia County Council voted to more than double parking fines in the unincorporated parts of the county. The hope is that the increase will act as a deterrent and help quell the parking woes that have been plaguing beachside neighborhoods.

Not only does the illegal parking create an inconvenience and eyesore for residents, but Councilwoman Deb Denys worries that the throng of illegally parked cars could impede response vehicles from getting to an emergency. Denys first broached the idea of amending the county’s parking ordinance at the council’s Aug. 4 meeting.

“We have to put some teeth into it. We have to stop this,” Denys said on Aug. 4.

Prior to Tuesday’s change, the county levied a $15 fine for parking in a prohibited area. While season passes are available, a one-day beach vehicle access pass costs $20. Tuesday’s decision by the council raises the parking fine to $35 and also tacks on an extra $10 surcharge to help fund the school crossing guard program, for a total cost per-ticket of $45. The council also increased the fine for overtime parking from $10 to $35 plus the $10 surcharge.

The $10 surcharge is permitted by state statute. This is the first time since 2006 that the county has amended its parking ordinance.