Backing Into Driveways May Become Illegal in 1 Florida Town

Residents of one Florida city may soon find themselves facing $50 fines if they choose to back into their own driveways.

Jacksonville City Council members are debating an ordinance that would make it illegal for vehicles to be parked in front of homes without their license tags clearly visible from the public right of way. For motorists who prefer covering their vehicles, the cover must leave either the tag visible or have the tag number printed legibly on it “with characters not less than two inches in height so that it is clearly visible from the right-of-way,” the proposed ordinance reads.

Council members in favor of the ordinance say it’s meant to cut down on blight by forcing people to get rid of their abandoned cars.

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Some residents, however, say the move goes too far.

“I think it’s ridiculous,” homeowner Dave Bryant was quoted by News4Jax as saying. Bryant explained people parallel park on his street, so being able to pull out in a forward direction makes it easier to see traffic.

Even so, Councilman Warren Jones said Jacksonville has a big issue with abandoned cars. The ordinance would make it simpler for code enforcement officers to be able to cite people since tags – or their absence – would be clearly visible from the right of way.

The proposed law is currently in committee with no date set for council action. The law also prohibits storage of inoperable freezers, refrigerators and indoor furniture on private property outside of fully enclosed locations.

Should the ordinance pass, it will go into effect upon receiving the mayor’s signature, city documents indicate.

What do you think, Tampa Bay? Is this a good idea that should be considered elsewhere or is it too much government intrusion? Tell us by commenting below!

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