Springfield, IL (WAND) – Parking at meters in Downtown Springfield may be free, but getting a ticket could soon become more expensive. A new ordinance under consideration by the city council would increase fines for several parking violations, including overstaying at parking meters and parking in fire zones.

Several Downtown Springfield employees said it is difficult to find spots to park near where they work. They often need to park blocks away and walk to work.

Downtown parking meters generally have time limits ranging from 30 minutes to two hours. Under the proposed changes, the fine for exceeding the posted limit would increase to $20. The resolution would also raise penalties for other parking violations.

“The city is looking to increase fines for three different types of parking infractions,” said Jay Shanle, the executive director for Downtown Springfield Inc.  “One of them being staying over the limit. Another is parking over the lines. And then another important one, parking and fire zones. That one has double the fines.”

Some downtown workers shared that the parking rules and zones can be difficult for customers and visitors to understand, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. Renee stated she often reminds customers and co-workers to keep an eye on the meters.

“I am constantly figuring out like, there’s this many more minutes, and then you have to make sure that you’re not parking there too long because you will get a ticket,” said Renee.

Shanle believes the increased fines could help improve parking availability by discouraging drivers from violating the rules. People will still be able to park for free at meters, and won’t receive tickets as long as they only park where they are allowed to.

“The increased fines should discourage people from abusing the rules and making more parking spots open,” Shanle said. “That’s the same thing that’s happened with our new underground parking. It takes those people off the streets and opens up more parking for people.”

The proposal is expected to be discussed further by city leaders in the coming weeks. WAND News reached out to Mayor Misty Buscher and Alderwoman Lakeisha Purchase, who asked for the violation changes. Neither provided comment on the ordinance.