Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The City of Rochester is cracking down on motorists with multiple unpaid parking tickets.

The Police Department today announced a new enforcement policy that calls for towing and impounding vehicles that have five or more unpaid parking citations that are at least 30 days old.

The city will be mailing letters to the owners of any vehicle that meets the criteria to inform them that have 21 days from the date of the letter to pay all of the citations or risk having their vehicle towed and impounded until all fines, penalties, and fees are paid.

The previous policy had the city issuing warrants for people with the multiple unpaid tickets. The city notes the new policy is similar to the enforcement practices of other communities in Minnesota.

Officials say parking tickets can be paid online at www.rochestermn.gov or by telephone at 888-266-1408 using most major credit cards, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Tickets may be paid in person at the City Clerk’s Office or using the after-hours drop box in the Government Center parking lot. Payment may also be made by mail with check or money order (do not mail cash) to City Clerk’s Office, 201 4th St. SE Room 135, Rochester, MN 55904. Mailed payments must be received and processed by the City Clerk’s office prior to the expiration of the 21-day grace period to avoid this enforcement action.

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