MOUNT DORA, Fla. – Mount Dora police launched a crackdown on illegal handicap placard use during a recent operation at Walmart and Target.
During the two-day operation, aimed to ensure the spots remain available for community members who depend on them, officers with the department’s traffic unit conducted more than 80 traffic stops.
Police also recovered over 30 handicap placards that were being used illegally, the department said in a social media post.
“Misusing a handicap placard might seem minor to some, but it directly impacts residents who rely on these spaces for mobility and safety. Our goal is to ensure that accessible parking remains available for those who genuinely need it.”
According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, illegal use of a disabled parking permit can lead to a $1,000 fine or up to six months in jail. Permit holders can’t loan their permits to family or friends, even if running errands. If the person with the disability isn’t present, the fine is $1,000. Misusing the permit costs twice the regular disabled parking violation fee.