NEW HAVEN -- As the new fiscal year begins in New Haven, the city is tackling the way it regulates parking which will likely save many residents money on permits.
Residential parking permits in designated areas are now available at no cost to city residents whose vehicles are registered in New Haven.
In the past, there was a $20 permit that needed to be renewed each year.
Now, permits can be obtained at no cost at City Hall on Church Street by those who live in current residential zones.
New permits, still to be issued at no cost, will be required in 90 days.
Those people living outside the designated zones and those living on streets not currently restricted to permit holders are encouraged to contact their alderman to start the process toward zone designation.
Also new, there will be a $100 penalty for violations of residential parking regulations and there will be stepped up enforcement beginning later this month to ensure proper permits for those vehicles.
Unregulated parking has been a major concern among a growing number of residents in the city.
