You can file this under "Things that make us go hmmm".
Look closely and you'll see the city's parking enforcement vehicle is parked on Ferguson St. in front of a sign that clearly states, "Loading zone. Commercial vehicles only".
Loading zones are for commercial vehicles only, and clearly, no loading or unloading is going on here.
According to the city bylaw, vehicles must be properly signed and be in the process of loading or unloading. There is a 20-minute maximum.
Stopping is considered parking for any length of time regardless if the vehicle is running or occupied.
The City defines "Commercial motor vehicle" as a motor vehicle which is identified by a sign which is painted or firmly attached to the outside of the vehicle, which bears the name or style of the business and which vehicle is used for the purpose of delivery of materials.
Some city officials privately refer to this as their "diplomatic immunity".
You probably thought all of this couldn't be legal, but it is.
An email from city Communications Officer Jaclyn Bucik says an exemption was passed so their own bylaw enforcement vehicle wouldn't get ticketed.
"All emergency and by-law enforcement vehicles are exempt as per Section 5.1 of the On-Street Parking By-Law (2014_037). In addition, these vehicles are considered commercial vehicles and, just like private commercial vehicles, are legally allowed to park in the Loading Zones for up to a maximum of 20 minutes.
"Our City by-law enforcement officers try to be compliant with the laws, however, if compliance is impractical in order to carry out duties a City vehicle is exempt as per Section 5.1 of the by-law.
"Regarding your inquiry about parking along a fire route. Our by-law enforcement officers, such as the case at the mall, often park in this location while they conduct enforcement in the area."
