Can You Get a Ticket for Parking in a Texas Expectant Mother Spot?

If you go to most businesses in Texas these days, especially a grocery store, you will find designated parking spots for veterans or for expectant mothers. If you’re one or both of these people, it’s kind of a perk, especially if you’re 22 months pregnant. That close parking spot can make a difference because you’re waddling by then.

What happens when you go to pull into that spot, and you see somebody who's nowhere near pregnant get out of the car? It can be frustrating.

But are they breaking the law by parking in spots marked by signs like these?

Can You Get a Ticket for Parking in a Courtesy Spot?

These signs are considered courtesy signs, and, unfortunately, drivers can’t get a ticket for parking in these marked spots. Under the Texas Transportation Code, tickets and fines are reserved for state-regulated disabled parking spaces.

Can a Store Tow You From a Veteran or Expectant Mother Spot?

These types of spots in a business parking lot are just put there by the owner as a courtesy. Technically, anybody could park there, but the store could have the violator towed.

Read More: Lane Changes at Intersections: Is It Legal in Texas?

Grocery Pickup Spots Are Reserved Too

This also goes for the grocery pickup spots. Don't park there. Those are for the people who have done their grocery shopping online.

Read More: Flashing Your High Beams To Warn Others Of Police; Legal Or Illegal

Be Courteous and Save the Close Spots for Those Who Need Them

You may not be pregnant, a veteran, or picking up groceries. Don't be a jerk; be courteous. Yes, you might feel slighted that these folks get closer and more convenient parking, but it is what it is, and those spots are for them. You have the rest of the parking lot. It won't hurt you to walk a little further. If you do have a reason to need a closer parking spot, apply for a handicap tag. Texas offers permanent and temporary tags.