Sharpsburg parking ordinance updated, fines to go up next April

Parking at charging stations in Sharpsburg is now restricted just to electric vehicles, which may use the stations only while actively charging and for 15 minutes after completion.

That is one of several parking ordinance changes that borough officials approved April 27.

Other updates include metered parking lots changing from all-day enforcement to being monitored from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday so that more free parking can be offered to residents in the evening and overnight.

Free parking permits may be obtained by any resident. Permits continue to be required only in the permit zones.

At James Sharp Landing from May 1 through Sept. 3o parking in the spaces on the railroad side of the lot will be restricted to vehicles with a connected boat trailer.

“The updates made to the ordinance were in response to feedback from borough residents and are intended to ensure that parking in Sharpsburg better meets the needs of our residents and visitors,” said Councilman Peter Adams via email.

The borough issued a survey last fall that garnered more than 100 responses. Council also heard parking concerns from residents at various meetings and through email.

The ordinance increased fines for parking violations, which will go into effect April 1, 2024. Parking meter fines will go from $5 to $10. Other parking citations will go from $15 to $20.

“Parking will always be a challenge in Sharpsburg given our density, but I’m hoping the adjustments made in this ordinance make it better,” Adams said.

The parking ordinance is available for review at the borough office, 1611 Main St.