DOWNEY : City Cracks Down on Truck Parking

City officials have a message for big-rig drivers: Keep on rolling.

The City Council has voted to ban vehicles of more than 10,000 pounds from parking in most commercial areas except on legitimate business, such as picking up or delivering goods. “The idea is to [stop] large trucks from using retail parking lots and commercial [and] residential roadways as places to park,” said Assistant City Manager Lee Powell.

The revised ordinance applies to vehicles such as tractor-trailers, backhoes and cement mixers.

Just about the only places truckers will be able to cool their wheels in commercial zones are motels. “We’re making an accommodation to those businesses whose customers drive trucks and need to park overnight,” Powell said.

Under the existing law, trucks generally have been allowed to park in commercial areas for 72 hours, Lawrence said. The three-day limit still applies to vehicles under five tons.

Drivers can still load and unload goods and stop at construction or work sites. And businesses that store trucks can continue to do so. Vehicles that are broken down or damaged can park for up to 24 hours.

“This is not meant to prevent stopping for legitimate business,” said Councilwoman Joyce L. Lawrence.

The vehicles will still be allowed to park in industrial areas.

The law takes effect June 8. Violators face $50 tickets.