Lansing, East Lansing curb parking enforcement 

WEDNESDAY, March 25 — The cities of Lansing and East Lansing are no longer enforcing most parking violations amid the statewide lockdown that orders most residents to stay home. 

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor confirmed last week that all daytime parking tickets — including downtown metered spots — are not being issued while a state of emergency remains in effect 

 Additionally, the city has also suspended its ban on overnight parking from 2-5 a.m. until further notice. 

In East Lansing, Mayor Ruth Beier said parking enforcement has been relaxed in recent days, though she’s not too keen on publicizing the news for fear of the flexibility being abused. Until further notice, the city is not enforcing parking except for overnight violations or if a vehicle blocks an access area or roadway, Beier said. 

“Officers are not focused on minor parking or meter violations,” according to a statement sent out today from the East Lansing Police Department. “Enforcement efforts are currently focused on direct public safety hazards such as handicap parking violations, blockage of fire lanes and hydrants or obstruction of crosswalks.” 

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s sweeping, “Stay Safe, Stay Home” executive order remains in effect until at least April 13, limiting all nonessential employees to stay home. The order has forced businesses not involved in “critical infrastructure” work to close or switch to remote operations — clearing many city streets over the last two days. 

Other businesses — like gyms, spas, theaters, hair and nail salons, tattoo shops and other retailers — have already been shuttered under an executive order from last week. Gatherings of more than 50 people are largely restricted, except for church crowds, with many switching to virtual services. Parking spaces have been widely available.  

Still, officials warn residents not to abuse their new parking privileges and to stay home as much as possible. 

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