If you park at the hospital in HRM and have no reason for being there, you could be slapped with a hefty fine.
Health Minister Michelle Thompson told reporters, as of Thursday, $500 tickets will be in effect.
“We certainly wanted a fine that would be a strong deterrent to people. We’re very pleased to say that we haven’t had to issue any warnings yet, that people have been very compliant and respectful of the utilization of those parking lots,” said Thompson.
She said she expects people to remain respectful of the rules, but the ticket is there if is needed.
Free parking
The idea of a $500 ticket came into place after parking became free at all hospitals and healthcare facilities in the province, May 1.
Spaces became a hot commodity in the city and difficult to nab, particularly for staff
Recently, 175 more spots were available to healthcare workers in the Summer Street parkade and extra lot South Street expected to be open by August.
However, according to Nova Scotia Health, they are still short about 4,000 spots in Halifax with a need for over 6,000 and only 2,300 available.
The health authority told us they recognize there aren’t many options for healthcare workers so the fee to park in other lots have been capped at $14.50 no longer how long they take.
The news of the $500 fine was sent to staff in a memo.
