Truckers in Langley Township, British Columbia, faced a crackdown on illegal parking this January, with officials issuing fines exceeding $50,000.

The crackdown: The township's Bylaw Enforcement Department targeted commercial vehicles parked on agricultural and rural properties in violation of zoning bylaws.

• In 2023, 64 cases were reported, resulting in 881 tickets.
• Zoning regulations restrict the parking of more than three commercial vehicles on most rural properties unless associated with residential use.
• Operators of diesel repair or trucking businesses require a proper license, which is contingent on zoning compliance.

Enforcement efforts: While aiming for voluntary compliance, authorities are ready to seek legal action against persistent offenders, including pursuing court injunctions.

• A dedicated Commercial Vehicle Unit has been established to address these concerns.
• In 2023, the Township succeeded in resolving 56 cases of illegal parking, emphasizing their commitment to protecting land use.

Long-term solutions: Mayor Eric Woodward recognizes the importance of finding sustainable parking solutions and urges provincial cooperation to avoid shifting the problem across the region.

The township insists on compliance, with Manny Natt, the Bylaw Enforcement Manager, asserting that "the Township will not hesitate to use legal measures to ensure bylaw compliance."

With Langley Township intensifying its enforcement, truckers are encouraged to adhere to designated parking areas to avoid hefty fines and legal issues.