Greenville Enforces Criminal Charges for Parking Gate Damage

The city of Greenville, South Carolina, is taking decisive action against drivers who damage parking gates in municipal garages.

 

Effective immediately, individuals who intentionally break or lift gates to evade payment will face criminal charges.

 

In 2025 alone, Greenville parking staff reported over 100 incidents of gate damage, averaging more than one occurrence per week.

 

To combat this issue, all city garages are now equipped with license plate readers and surveillance cameras, enabling authorities to identify offending vehicles.

 

Offenders will incur a fine of $150 for gate damage.

 

Criminal charges will vary based on the extent of the damage.

 

According to city officials, damages exceeding $2,000 can result in felony charges, carrying penalties of up to five years in jail and/or substantial fines.

 

For damages under $2,000, offenders may face misdemeanor charges, with fines up to $1,000 and/or up to 30 days in jail.

 

"This initiative aims to change behavior, not just punish," stated Parking Services Administrator Bill Foster.

 

He encourages drivers experiencing issues at the gate to use the call button for assistance, noting that employees are available 24/7 to help.

 

In related developments, the city has approved a $13.4 million budget for a new parking garage in the West End neighborhood.

 

Located along Howe Street, this facility will add 400 public parking spaces and is expected to be completed by March 2026.

 

Additionally, city leaders are considering increasing parking fees to address budgetary needs.

 

Proposals include raising hourly rates in city garages from $1 to $2, with the first hour remaining free, and increasing event parking fees from $5 to $10.

 

These measures reflect Greenville's commitment to maintaining and improving its parking infrastructure while ensuring compliance with regulations.