What Canton Drivers Need to Know About New Parking Rules

Canton drivers need to be aware of several important updates and rules regarding parking in the city to avoid fines and hassles:

1. Diagonal Parking Implementation: Downtown Canton has both parallel and diagonal parking spaces. The diagonal spaces require “back-in” parking—drivers must reverse into these spots and pull forward when leaving. This system is designed to improve safety by reducing hazards when re-entering traffic lanes.
2. Parking Meter Rules: Canton operates around 700 parking meters downtown. Most are 2-hour or 10-hour meters. The short-term meters (2 hours or less) cost 75 cents per hour, and long-term meters (10 hours) cost 25 cents per hour. Meters accept only coins, do not give change, and do not store extra time if overpaid. Parking outside the marked meter zones is a violation.
3. Common Parking Violations and Fines:
   1. $10 fines for expired meters, parking beyond permitted time, blocking driveways or traffic, bus/taxi zones, commercial loading zones, no parking during peak hours, and street sweeping areas.
   2. $12 fines for violations like fire lanes, snow ban violations, or parking more than 12 inches from the curb.
   3. $252 fines for handicapped zone violations.
   4. Failure to pay fines can lead to towing and impoundment of the vehicle.
4. New Proposed Parking and Admissions Taxes: Canton leaders are considering citywide admissions and parking taxes of 3%, which would increase the cost of parking and event admissions starting in 2025, beyond the existing taxes in certain tourism districts.
5. Payment Options: Parking fines can be paid at Canton City Hall in person, via mail using checks or money orders, or by phone. Early payment within 72 hours typically results in a lower fine.
6. Enforcement and Tow Policy: Vehicles with three or more unpaid parking tickets or $50 in unpaid parking fines within the past 36 months may be subject to towing and impoundment at the owner’s expense.

Drivers in Canton are encouraged to follow all parking rules, pay meters promptly, and use designated parking spaces correctly to avoid fines and vehicle towing incidents. Staying informed about updates and new tax proposals can help Canton motorists plan accordingly and avoid surprises.

Sources

(https://www.cantonohio.gov/222/On-Street-Parking)
(https://www.cantonrep.com/story/news/local/stark-county/2024/07/09/canton-city-considering-3-admissions-and-parking-taxes-for-2025/74223459007/)
(https://app.cantonohio.gov/engineering/?pg=208)
(http://northcantonohio.gov/FAQ.aspx?QID=81)
(https://www.northcantonohio.gov/Calendar.aspx)