Alternate-side parking rules in effect for city of La Crosse, sidewalks need to be shoveled within 24 hours of last snowfall or face $187 fine

With a snowstorm hitting the area, the city of La Crosse declared its first snow emergency of the season.

That means alternate-side parking rules are in effect now, until 6 a.m. Thursday — unless the street department says otherwise.

Residents can be notified of snow emergencies through a text alert, or city news by signing up for email updates.

Two years ago, the city council got rid of traditional alternate-side parking and put in place these snow emergency rules, allowing residents more freedom to park, as snow accumulation is no longer as harsh.

Not abiding by alternate-side parking rules will get you a $0 ticket for the first violation in a calendar year. The second offense will be a $15 fine and that price doubles if it’s not paid within 45 days. After 45 days, the fine jumps to $60.

City residents will also have 24 hours after the snowfall ends to shovel their sidewalks.

Violators will receive a $187 citation and have another 24 hours to clear the sidewalk. If that doesn’t happen, the city will clear it at a rate of $.33 per square foot, billed to the property owner.

The fine jumps to $218.50 for the second violation, following another snow storm.