What are the penalties for illegal parking in Beijing?
2 Answers
Beijing imposes fines and penalty points for illegal parking. Here is more relevant information: 1. On-site illegal parking penalties: For violations of road traffic safety laws regarding motor vehicle parking, if the driver is present, the traffic police can point out the illegal act and issue a verbal warning, ordering the driver to leave immediately. Generally, as long as the driver leaves quickly, there will be no fine. If the driver refuses to leave and the parked vehicle obstructs other vehicles or pedestrians, the traffic police will impose a fine. 2. Off-site illegal parking penalties: If the driver is not present, in addition to issuing a fine ticket, if the parked vehicle obstructs other vehicles or pedestrians, the traffic police department has the authority to tow the vehicle to a location that does not obstruct traffic or to a parking area designated by the traffic management department of the public security authorities.
Driving in Beijing, parking violations are met with strict penalties. I've personally experienced such situations while driving. Typically, fines start at 200 yuan. Parking in no-stopping zones, fire lanes, or on sidewalks will definitely result in a ticket from the police, along with a 2-point deduction from your driver's license. Electronic surveillance is particularly stringent, especially near commercial areas or schools, and multiple violations in a single day can lead to accumulated fines. In severe cases, such as blocking traffic, your car may even be towed. You'd then have to retrieve it from the impound lot, paying a towing fee usually ranging from 300 to 500 yuan, not to mention taking time off work to deal with it. Once, my neighbor parked haphazardly at a residential intersection and had their car towed immediately, causing several days of hassle. That's why in Beijing, I always use parking apps to find legal parking spots to avoid fines and unnecessary trouble. After receiving a fine, it's crucial to pay it promptly through designated banks or apps; otherwise, you won't pass your vehicle inspection. These rules are designed to maintain traffic order and prevent congestion and accidents.
