Mobile Police want to make sure you know the "No's" of Mardi Gras before you head downtown. Because otherwise, it's gonna cost you. And I mean REALLY cost you... $125 to $298.
First thing to know is where NOT to park:
From the Mobile Police Department:
With 300 vehicles towed last year during Mardi Gras, the Mobile Police Department is reminding drivers of the meaning behind the gold and purple signs. The gold and purple signs are up in the downtown area to show exactly where parking is not allowed two hours before, during and after a parade. To avoid paying a $125 to retrieve a towed vehicle, please pay attention to the no parking signs.Guests can park on any side streets that allow parking, but should not block any businesses or residential driveways. Parking is allowed at the Mobile Civic Center, the Mobile Convention Center, and Cooper Riverside Park parking lot.(KEEP THIS INFO HANDY.... You may need it. For a friend, of course)
Towed vehicles will be taken to a Temporary Impound Lot, located at Royal and Madison Streets. That temporary fenced lot is next to the Mobile Cruise Terminal near the I-10 roadway. The Temporary Impound Lot stays open 1 hour and 30 minutes after the end of each parade. The telephone numbers for the Temporary Impound Lot are 251-694-7813 and 251-694-7823.
Here's something that will cost you even more!
And some things just aren't allowed in downtown Mobile during Mardi Gras: (Some behavior isn't either... check the list before you go!)
Glass containers are prohibited by city ordinance
Materials known as “Silly String” and “Snap & Pops” along with similar products are illegal.
Skateboards and motorized scooters are prohibited.
Pets and other animals are prohibited. Pet means any animal, fowl, reptile, or any other such usual, unusual or exotic pet kept or owned by any person or persons. It is unlawful and an offense against the city for any person or persons who own or keep a pet of any kind or nature whatsoever to bring or allow any such pet to be brought onto the streets of the city when and where Mardi Gras parades and/or other activities are conducted, where uncontained, contained on a leash or otherwise contained. Any person found in violation will be punished by a fine of $25, not including court costs and fees.