§ 66-45. Exclusive parking for physically handicapped persons.

(a)

It shall be unlawful for any person to stop, stand or park a vehicle other than a transport vehicle for physically handicapped persons in a parking space or area restricted to use by transport vehicles for physically handicapped persons. The term "physically handicapped" shall be defined as loss or loss of use of both legs, or so severely disabled as to be unable to ambulate without the aid of a wheelchair or other mechanical device, or having a disability as defined by V.T.C.A., Transportation Code § 681.001. The term "transport vehicle for physically handicapped" shall be defined as a motor vehicle regularly operated by or for the transportation of physically handicapped persons and which is so designated by a special symbol or other device pursuant to V.T.C.A., Transportation Code § 502.253 or ch. 681.

(b)

The director of public works of the city is hereby authorized and directed to designate and establish spaces on the streets and other property owned or controlled by the city for the exclusive use as parking spaces or area for transport vehicles for physically handicapped persons and to mark such spaces or areas with appropriate and conspicuous signs which advise that the space or area is restricted parking, and that violation of such restrictions shall subject the driver to a fine.

(c)

The owner or lessee of private property, to which the public has or is permitted to have access, may designate parking spaces or areas for the exclusive use of transport vehicles for physically handicapped persons. Such signs, to be posted at the expense of the owner or lessee, shall be of a standard size, color, lettering and mounting, such standards of size, color and lettering to conform to patterns, drawings or samples of same to be obtained from the director of public works of the city. The designation of such parking spaces or areas shall never make the city responsible for same, except as set out in subsection (d) of this section.

(d)

Any persons found guilty of a violation of this section shall, upon conviction, be subject to a fine of not more than $500.00. This penalty shall be enforced by the city police department and by the director of public works.

(Code 1977, § 20-13)

State law reference

Similar provisions, V.T.C.A., Transportation Code § 681.011.