HOULTON, Maine — With winter seemingly here to stay, Houlton Police Chief Tim DeLuca and Houlton Public Works Director Chris Stewart are reminding drivers of the town’s downtown parking ban.
“As we know, for many reasons, parking and snow removal go hand in hand to insure our streets, sidewalks and public parking areas are kept clear from ice and snow,” Chief DeLuca said.
From Nov. 1 of each year until April 1 of the following year, it is unlawful to park any motor vehicle on any street or public way and on any municipally owned property within the town between the hours of midnight and 6 a.m.
The chief also said the two-hour parking limit remains in effect year round from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on parking spots surrounding Houlton’s downtown. Downtown business owners are responsible for removing snow and ice from the sidewalk in front of their respective businesses.
Public parking lots at Water and Mechanic streets are options for people to park in downtown. After a snowstorm, owners are asked to move their vehicles to the “No all-night parking” section to allow for snow to be removed. Once snow removal is complete, vehicles can be returned.
Stewart noted that residents are reminded that it is illegal to plow or place snow on a public way when clearing their driveways. That public way extends to sidewalks and fire hydrants.
“Keeping these requirements in mind will help with safety for the community,” Chief DeLuca said. “We would rather have everyone working together than to take enforcement action. We appreciate your cooperation.”