Why doesn't the City tag cars instead of tow during a snow emergency?
Whether officially declared or not, anytime there is a snowfall of two or more inches, a Snow Emergency exists and parking on any city street or city parking lot is prohibited until plowed. All vehicles must be removed from the streets and parking lots in order to allow city snow plowing activities to occur. Issuing a citation and allowing the vehicle to remain would not permit the snowplows to adequately and safely clear the streets of snow.
Vehicles that are not removed prior to plowing operations are towed to the designated towing contractor. The towing contractor for the City is re-bid each year.
Isn't the street in front of my house for my parking only?
Unfortunately, no. Any person may legally park a vehicle on any city street for no longer than 24 continuous hours. Parking regulations may be found under Hopkins City Code 1305.