City reminds residents of parking bans, winter weather tips

The Office of Emergency Management and Communications (OEMC) and other city departments are reminding residents about parking bans and winter weather tips.

The overnight winter parking ban will be enforced from 3 to 7 a.m. beginning on Thursday, the office said. The ban will be enforced through April 2017 and impacts about 107 miles of city streets. Violators can face a $150 towing fee, $60 ticket and $20 storage fee charge per day of storage.

The city said motorists can avoid violations by checking street signage. A complete map of impacted streets can be found on the city’s website.

Residents and business owners are also required to shovel sidewalks in front of their buildings and keep them clear of snow, the office said. A path of at least 5-feet-wide must be cleared, including any crosswalk ramps. Those on corner lots should shovel on both side of their buildings.

Landlords are reminded that temperatures must be kept between 66-68 degrees during the day and overnight from Sept. 15 through June 1, the office said. Residents should tell their landlords first if temperatures drop and call if the city if they do not comply.

When temperatures fall below 32 degrees, the Department of Family and Support Services offers warming center locations throughout the city, the office said. To find the locations call 311 or consult the city’s website.

Residents are also encouraged to put together emergency kits and to stock up on supplies in the event of severe weather, the office said.

For more information and tips, go to http://www.cityofchicago.org.