BOONSBORO – The Town of Boonsboro has a new comprehensive update to its vehicles and traffic code, aimed at regulating parking and enhancing traffic safety within the town limits.
The new ordinance, approved April 7 by the mayor and council, outlines strict guidelines for parking, vehicle conditions and citation enforcement, effective immediately.
The resolution states the update will ensure safer streets and public spaces in the historic town at the foot of South Mountain named for cousins of the fabled Daniel Boone. Due to its proximity to the Antietam battlefield and its role during the Civil War, the town sees an influx of tourists in summer months which squeezes its limited capacity to handle high volumes of traffic.
“The resolution reflects Boonsboro’s commitment to maintaining safe, accessible streets for residents and visitors alike,” the ordinance stated. “By addressing issues like abandoned vehicles, improper parking and traffic obstructions, the town aims to reduce hazards and improve quality of life.”
The ordinance clarifies definitions of abandoned vehicles (any vehicle lacking current, valid registration left on public or private property without permission); commercial vehicles (having a gross weight of 10,001 pounds); disabled vehicle (a malfunctioning vehicle left on public or private property until repairs or towing can be arranged); stored vehicle (any vehicle parked on public streets or lots for more than seven days without regular use); and wrecked vehicle (severely damaged and requiring towing).
New parking restrictions “to maintain order and accessibility” include banning parking for “all abandoned, unregistered, expired, wrecked, disabled or inoperative vehicles” from public streets beyond a 72-hour window. In addition, vehicles, trailers or motor homes cannot be stored on public streets for extended periods.
In addition, vehicles on two-way roads must park parallel within one foot of the right-hand curb, while one-way roads allow parking on either side, aligned with traffic flow. Parking near “safety zones” including fire hydrants (within 15 feet), in fire lanes, on sidewalks, in crosswalks or within 15 feet of intersections. Double parking and blocking driveways or alleys are also now explicitly illegal.
The ordinance will strengthen enforcement of handicap parking spaces being allowed only by vehicles displaying permits or placards, and restrict commercial vehicles from residential areas unless they are actively conducting business.
Additional rules ban parking in violation of official signage, on private property without consent or obstructing traffic flow. Vehicle repairs on streets are limited to emergencies and must not block roadways.
Fines must be paid in person at the Boonsboro Police Department during office hours, via a drop box after hours or by mail within 20 days, or fine doubles. Unpaid fines after 45 days are flagged with the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration for registration suspension.
