SAN MARCOS, Texas (KXAN) –  Starting April 19, both residents and visitors of San Marcos will see an increase in parking fines. These changes will be implemented in order help reduce traffic congestion and ensure compliance with parking regulations, the City of San Marcos said in a news release Tuesday.

“Effective parking enforcement ensures reduced traffic congestion, improved visibility and accessibility, enhanced pedestrian safety, and mitigates the likelihood of accidents while improving overall street safety,” said Parking Enforcement Coordinator Samantha Deyo said in the release.

Under the new regulations, level 1 violations will increase to $50. These include parking overtime, within 20 feet of a crosswalk, parking on the wrong side of the street, as well as parking in an electrical parking space without charging, according to the city.

Anyone who receives a level 1 violation has the option to pay within 14 days of the date it was issued to receive a 50% discount on the fine, the release said.

Level 2 violations, which include backing into front-only parking spaces, parking in front-facing spaces designated for back-in parking, blocking driveways and parking in no parking zones will result in a $100 fine.

Violations categorized as level 3, such as commercial vehicles parked in residential areas, vehicles parked near fire zones or hydrants and vehicles obstructing bicycle lanes will incur in a $250 fine, the release said.

Lastly, those who receive a Level 4 violation will be fined $500. These infractions pertain to parking in accessibility parking spaces, according to the city.

Citations can be paid online through San Marcos citations website or in person at the San Marcos Municipal Court, according to the city.

Additionally, payments can be made by mail using a personal check or money order only, payable to “City of San Marcos” and sent directly to their address