Almost 18 months after former Central Otago District Council (CODC) mayor Tim Cadogan spent time as a parking warden around the district, the council will soon officially start dishing out tickets.

Central Otago District Council is once again putting the spotlight on parking behaviour as it reactivates the community education campaign in preparation for parking enforcement to begin in late July.

The initiative builds on work in early 2023, when council consulted on changes to its 2020 Roading Bylaw to allow for better parking management and to align with the Land Transport Act.

"We're picking up where we left off," CODC regulatory services manager Lee Webster said. 

"Our focus is still on education for now - talking to drivers, leaving friendly reminders on vehicles and encouraging people to be more mindful of where and how they park."

Drivers may receive a friendly reminder if they are parked:

• On yellow lines
• On or blocking a footpath
• Over the time limit in a time-restricted parking space
• In a mobility space without displaying the required permit

"Parking is free across Central Otago, but that doesn't mean it's a free-for-all," Lee said. 

"There are rules in place to make sure parking is fair and safe for everyone - particularly in our busier town centres like Cromwell and Alexandra."

CODC continues to receive complaints from the public about unsafe or inconsiderate parking. As a result, it is signalling a move toward active enforcement, including issuing infringement notices.

Once enforcement begins, parking infringements will range from $20 to $750, depending on the offence.

“Our aim is to keep our streets safe and accessible. We want to ensure roads remain clear, mobility spaces are available for those who need them, and to promote responsible parking practices,” Lee said.

Drivers are encouraged to take a moment before parking to check the signage and be mindful of parking correctly.

"We're giving people every opportunity to adjust their habits before infringements begin," Lee said. 

“If everyone does their part, drivers won’t ever need to see a ticket on their windscreen.”

Read more: Mayor tackles parking problem

PHOTO: Supplied