Associated Press
 
November 19, 2009
 
PORTLAND, Ore. -- Drivers will need to be extra careful when parking in Portland because the city has greatly increased the cost of tickets.
 
Starting Jan. 4, the fine for overtime parking will increase from $24 to $34, a 42 percent jump.
 
Fines for other violations will rise even more and take effect sooner.
 
For example, starting Nov. 30 the fine for parking at a fire hydrant will increase from $100 to $150 and the penalty for blocking a handicapped access ramp will increase from $150 to $210.
 
Parking in a disabled zone without a valid permit increases from $190 to $450.
 
The city expects to get about $500,000 from the bigger tickets.