Feedback Sought On 72-Hour Parking Rule Exemption In Alexandria

ALEXANDRIA, VA—The City of Alexandria is looking for input related to the 72-hour parking rule.

Under city law, a vehicle cannot be parked in one space on a public street for more than 72 consecutive hours, aside from weekends and holidays. Vehicles registered with the city must be approved for the exemption. If a violation of the law is reported, an officer is sent to the scene. Three days later, an officer returns to check if the vehicle has been moved. If it hasn't been moved, the vehicle owner is fined $25. In some cases, an impound warning is placed on the vehicle.

In 2017, City Council approved exemptions for residents parking within one-eighth mile of their homes or those with parking permit stickers. The exemptions are good for up to two weeks and can be approved up to four times each year.

The exemption program is set to expire on Nov. 1, 2019. The city had opened a survey to determine whether or not to continue the exemptions. The survey is open through May 19.

The city did a complete review of the 72-hour parking rule before the exemption was approved. City Council opted not to eliminate the 72-hour rule during the process.

Public feedback will be used to make recommendations to the Traffic and Parking Board and City Council. Public hearings could happen over the summer.