La Mirada Considers Across-the-Board Parking Fine Increases — Some Violations Could Rise to $700+

October 26 2025 La Mirada La Mirada is reviewing a sweeping proposal to raise parking fines citywide—the first major update to the city’s Uniform Parking Bail Schedule since 2010. City staff say the changes are meant to keep pace with inflation and align with other Los Angeles County jurisdictions. But for drivers, the new schedule could mean double-digit percentage hikes on even minor violations—and steep penalties for serious ones.

Background: First Fine Increase in 15 Years

Under California Vehicle Code Section 40203.5(a), cities within the same county are encouraged to standardize parking penalties “to the extent possible.” La Mirada last adjusted its fines in 2010, setting most between $45 and $68. Since then, inflation, new state parking laws, and citation-processing costs have climbed, prompting city staff to recommend a comprehensive update. Assistant City Manager Anne Haraksin and Public Safety Supervisor Michael Alfonso presented the proposal at a study session on October 14, 2025, following earlier council direction from July 8.

How the New System Would Work

Staff surveyed 19 cities and unincorporated county areas, including Whittier, Pico Rivera, Cerritos, Pasadena, and Malibu. They recommend a 10 percent increase for non-hazardous violations and, for hazardous offenses—those that block fire access, sidewalks, or intersections—setting fines 10 percent above the highest rate charged by any city surveyed.

If approved later this year, the higher amounts would apply citywide once the council formally adopts the new schedule by resolution.

Why It Matters-Cost of living impact:

Even modest increases can strain residents already facing higher insurance and registration fees. A single mistake—such as parking too close to a hydrant—could soon cost more than $150.

Safety rationale: Officials argue that deterrence works only if fines reflect actual risk. Parking in a fire lane, they say, endangers lives and justifies stronger penalties.

Regional consistency: La Mirada’s goal is to remain within the range of neighboring cities, but its proposed 10 percent “premium” would make it one of the toughest enforcement zones in southeast Los Angeles County.

Public Reaction Likely Divided

Some residents may welcome stricter enforcement around schools and fire lanes. Others may see it as excessive—especially since the city is also considering new rules for electric mobility devices in another study session the same day. The City Council will discuss the updated bail schedule in study session only; no final vote is expected until a later regular meeting when a formal resolution is introduced.

Broader Context: Enforcement vs. Education

Parking fines are deposited into city and county traffic-safety funds, not the general fund. However, critics often argue that heavy fines can feel punitive rather than corrective, particularly in dense neighborhoods with limited parking. Cities such as Pasadena and Long Beach have faced lawsuits over fine escalation and collection practices, leading some to call for graduated penalties or first-offense warnings. La Mirada’s proposal focuses instead on uniform increases across all categories.

Questions for Residents to Ask

1. Why set hazardous fines 10 percent above the highest surveyed city?

2. How will revenue from higher fines be used? Will it fund traffic-safety education or operations?

3. Can first-time offenders receive warnings instead of full fines?

4. Will the city offer payment plans or hardship options for low-income residents?

5. How will “daylighting” zones be marked so drivers understand the new rule?

6. What criteria define a “hazardous” violation versus a non-hazardous one?

7. When will the City Council take a final vote and accept public comment?

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Final Word

Fifteen years after its last adjustment, La Mirada is poised to join the growing list of California cities re-examining parking enforcement as both a safety tool and a revenue mechanism. Whether residents see the proposal as necessary deterrence or government overreach will depend on how the city explains and applies the new fines.