Illegal parking can hook big fine

Parking illegally before heading out to fish can result in fines between $100 and $500, warns the Island RCMP. Queens District RCMP says it has received a number of calls about vehicles parked on the bridge and obstructing traffic in Stanley Bridge, for example.

In many cases, popular fishing ponds and rivers are located in close proximity to busy roads, intersections or bridges, said the warning statement issued by the RCMP Thursday.

“The RCMP would like to remind the travelling public to be aware of extra vehicle and pedestrian traffic in these areas as well as vehicles parked along the sides of the roads,” said the statement.

Recreational fishers must ensure their vehicle is parked in a safe location that does not interfere with traffic, it said.

“The P.E.I. Highway Traffic Act states that no person shall stop or park a vehicle on a highway so that the vehicle or any part of it is:

– on a sidewalk or an area generally used or intended for use by pedestrians;

– in front of a public or private driveway;

– within an intersection; – within 6 metres on either side of the entrance to or exit from a church, school, public meeting place or –playground or upon a bridge or other elevated structure upon a highway.”

Peace officers of many kinds, like police, highway safety and even wildlife wardens can issue tickets.

“Parking in these areas could get you to the fishing hole a minute sooner but could also result in a fine ranging from $100 to $500 and that is not a ‘catch’ anyone wants to get,” says the RCMP statement.