City ordinance parks residents in debate

Some Pittsburg residents are upset over a parking ordinance passed this past March that bans parking on lawns. 

By Matthew Parrott

In a move officials say is aimed at curbing unsightly parking practices and safeguarding city infrastructure, the city commission passed the ordinance, originally proposed by the city codes department, sparking debate among city residents. 

Under the new rule, residents are prohibited from parking vehicles on their lawns for more than 10 days. First-time offenders will receive a warning. The second offense incurs a $25 fine, which increases with repeated infractions. 

The measure has sparked debate among Pittsburg residents, with opinions divided on the government’s authority over private property. While some argue that individuals should have the right to park on their own property, others decry the eyesore of cars parked on lawns. 

Sophie Stanley, a Pittsburg resident, understands the purpose behind the ordinance but said she’s frustrated by the restriction. 

 “I do understand what the city is trying to say, but I do feel like I should be able to park on my property,” Stanley said. 

However, for residents like Zach Watowa, who doesn’t have a driveway or other parking options, the ordinance presents a challenge. 

 “I don’t have any street parking and can’t afford to build a driveway, so I don’t know what else to do,” Watowa said. 

City officials emphasize that the ordinance is essential for protecting city property, particularly utilities that may be damaged by vehicles parked on lawns. Kim Froman, the community director of development and housing, said the potential risks of blocking utilities are high. 

“If we need to access utilities for an emergency shut off, they would not want a vehicle in the way of that,” Froman said. “Most private utilities are underground and not meant to have vehicles driving on them.” 

Similar ordinances exist in other Kansas cities, such as Parsons, where parking on lawns is classified as a nuisance, punishable by fines of up to $500. 

To address concerns about parking availability, Pittsburg officials say they will help residents struggling to find alternative parking spaces. The city will dispatch representatives from the codes department to help residents find suitable parking options.