Fullerton : City Orders Crackdown on Fraternity Parking

At the request of the City Council, police can begin towing away cars without permits parked in the neighborhood near Cal State Fullerton fraternities.

Council members asked police to lift the usual 10-day grace period and enforce the ordinance that became effective June 1 after residents’ complaints. The latest action follows months of tension between fraternity members and nearby residents who have complained about loud parties, litter and lack of parking spaces.

A grace period is “something we normally do because we’re good guys. But I guess we’re not going to be good guys anymore,” Police Sgt. Bud Lathrop said.

Since June 1, police have issued about 30 citations, Lt. Larry Lewis said. The new program that gives free permits to residents living near the fraternities is “working out fine . . . we expect compliance,” Lewis said.

Illegally parked cars can either be impounded or ticketed, depending on the number of cars and the availability of officers, Lewis said. As of Friday afternoon, no cars had been towed, he said.

The fee for a citation is $29, and about $35 if the car is impounded, Lewis said.

The council approved the parking-permit program April 16 to alleviate the parking congestion in the area north of seven fraternities. Residents who live on Amherst Avenue, Shawn Lane, Sherwood Avenue and portions of Derek Drive and Teri Place can apply for the permits.