City lifts winter parking restrictions

SANDPOINT — With mild weather predicted for the rest of the season, city officials are ending Sandpoint’s winter parking restrictions.

The restrictions, which require drivers to park on sides of the street where addresses end in an even number, were expected to be in effect from Dec. 1 through March 1. Cars parked on the odd side of the road would be given a warning and eventually a $50 citation. Due to the lack of snow so far, officials have decided to cut the restrictions short. 

The current winter parking policy was put in place in November 2018 to allow room for city crews to get equipment down the city streets during snow removal operations, according to the policy. 

In the past, community members and business owners have voiced frustrations about the restrictions being in place during mild winters. However, some city officials said these citations are necessary to ensure the city’s rights-of-way are maintained and kept clear.

“Your compliance this season greatly assisted our street crews in their snow removal efforts, and we thank you for your help,” city officials said in a social media post.