PHILADELPHIA POLICE DEPARTMENT DIRECTIVE 3.2
SUBJECT: VEHICLE LAW OF PENNSYLVANIA (VEHICLE CODE) VIOLATIONS
PLEAC 2.4.1
INDEX
SECTION TITLE PAGE NUMBER
1 Policy 1
2 Requisition of Traffic Citations and 2
Parking Violation Reports
3 Internal Control of Traffic Citations and 2
Parking Violation Report Books
4 Preparation and Issuance of Traffic Citations 3
and Parking Violation Reports
5 Review and Processing of Traffic Violation 7
(TVR) Reports
6 Cancellation of Traffic Citations and Parking 9
Violation Reports
7 Cancellation of Traffic Violations (TCs or PVRs), 11
Red Light Camera, Speed Timing Camera, and Toll
Booth Violations Issued to Police Vehicles
8 Motor Vehicle Code, Section §4581: Occupant 13
Protection Laws
9 Pennsylvania Graduated License Program 15
10 Motor Carriers Road Tax 17
11 Resident Permit Parking Districts 19
12 List of Permit Parking Districts 20
Example Cancellation of Violation Issued to Police
Vehicle Letter
Appendix “A” Traffic Citation (TC) Preparation Instructions
Appendix “B” Parking Violation Report (PVR) Preparation
Instructions
Issued Date: 03-31-15
Effective Date: 03-31-15
Updated Date: 06-11-19
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 1
PHILADELPHIA POLICE DEPARTMENT DIRECTIVE 3.2
SUBJECT: VEHICLE LAW OF PENNSYLVANIA (VEHICLE CODE) VIOLATIONS
PLEAC 2.4.1
______________________________________________________________________________
1. POLICY
A. In accordance with Title 75 Pa. C.S.A., Vehicle Law of Pennsylvania (Vehicle Code),
only uniformed police personnel will issue Traffic Citation Reports (TC).
*2/*3 NOTE: In all situations where a vehicle, including a bicycle, is stopped based upon
reasonable suspicion or for Vehicle Code Violations and the operator/owner is
ultimately arrested, officers SHALL NOT ISSUE ANY TRAFFIC
CITATIONS TO THE OPERATOR/OWNER. The facts and circumstances
of all Vehicle Code violations, along with the specific code numbers, will be
documented by whoever prepares the PARS/PIIN/75-49 report. The District
Attorney’s Office Charging Unit will add the Vehicle Code Violations to the
list of criminal charges to ensure all charges and violations are addressed by
the same court.
B. There are two types of violations:
1. Traffic Citation (TC)--Traffic citations will be distributed and controlled by
Philadelphia Traffic Court. Traffic citations will be used for moving violations
only.
2. Parking Violation Report (PVR)--Parking violation reports will be distributed and
controlled by the Philadelphia Parking Authority. Parking violation reports are
used for parking violations only. All parking violations are reported as violations
of the Philadelphia Traffic Code.
C. Every reasonable effort will be made to enforce parking laws, stop moving violators,
and issue the proper TC or PVR. In some situations, a verbal warning is an appropriate
alternative to issuing a traffic violation.(PLEAC 2.4.1)
NOTE: The unauthorized practice known as “hard-backing” a violation (TC or PVR)
is strictly prohibited. Hard-backing is when a copy of the TC is not provided
to the operator of the vehicle at the time of the violation, or a copy of the PVR
is not left on the windshield of the vehicle at the time of the violation. Any
police officer who engages in this prohibited practice is subject to
departmental discipline. Refer to Section 4-C-2 for permissible exceptions.
Issued Date: 03-31-15
Effective Date: 03-31-15
Updated Date: 06-11-19
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 2
______________________________________________________________________________
2. REQUISITION OF TRAFFIC CITATIONS AND PARKING VIOLATION REPORTS
A. Commanding Officers, Districts/Units will make a requisition for TCs and PVRs by:
1. Traffic Citations - Prepare a memorandum, in duplicate, to the Commanding
Officer, Philadelphia Traffic Court Liaison Unit, requesting the number of TC
books needed. When the memorandum is presented, Traffic Court Liaison Unit
personnel will sign and record on the original and copy of the memorandum and
the beginning and ending citation numbers of those books being issued. Traffic
Court will keep the original and a copy will be returned to the district/unit along
with the citation books and will be retained in the district/unit files.
a. Commanding Officers will ensure that the citation books received match
with those invoiced on the memorandum.
2. Parking Violation Reports - Prepare a memorandum in duplicate, to the Manager of
Ticket Operations, Philadelphia Parking Authority, requesting the number of PVRs
needed. When the memorandum is presented to the Philadelphia Parking
*1 Authority, 35 North 8
th
Street, Parking Authority personnel will provide the officer
with a receipt listing the number of books being issued and their corresponding
ticket numbers. The second copy of the memorandum and receipt will be returned
to the district with the ticket order and retained in district/unit files.
a. Commanding Officers will ensure the PVR books received are match with
those listed on the receipt received from the Parking Authority.
B. The Operations Room Supervisor (ORS) will return defective book(s) by preparing a
Request for Cancellation (Form 75-147), in quadruplicate (original and three copies),
describing the nature of the defect(s).
1. Defective Traffic Citation books--Return the defective books along with the
original and one copy of the 75-147 to the Deputy Administrator, Operations,
Philadelphia Traffic Court. Forward one copy to the Police Liaison Officer, Traffic
Court, and retain the last copy of the 75-147 in the district/unit files.
2. Defective Parking Violation Books - Return the defective books along with the
original and two copies of the 75-147 to the Philadelphia Parking Authority and
retain the last copy of the 75-147 in the district/unit files.
______________________________________________________________________________
3. INTERNAL CONTROL OF TRAFFIC CITATION AND PARKING VIOLATION
REPORT BOOKS
A. Responsibilities of the Operations Room Supervisor (ORS):
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 3
1. Ensure all traffic violation books are distributed in strict numerical order, starting
with the lowest number.
2. Prepare Control Log (75-189) for each 12PM x 8AM tour of duty as follows:
a. Traffic Citation Books--Prepare the 75-189 in triplicate listing the distribution
of all traffic citation books by that district/unit for the previous 24 hour period.
Forward the original to the Deputy Administrator, Operations, Philadelphia
Traffic Court, and the second copy to the Police Liaison Officer, Traffic Court.
Retain the last copy in the district/unit files.
b. Parking Violation Books--Prepare the 75-189 in triplicate listing the
distribution of all parking violation books by that district/unit for the previous
24-hour period. Forward the original to the Manager of Ticket Operations,
Philadelphia Parking Authority, and the second copy to the Police Liaison
Officer, Traffic Court. Retain the last copy in the district/unit files.
3. Ensure all officers transferred, detailed out, or severed from service return their TC
or PVR books to the ORS.
a. Ensure that all copies of the remaining TCs or PVRs listed on the front cover of
the book are present in the returned book and in consecutive order.
b. Place the used books in with the current supply. Used books will be reissued to
officers before new books are issued.
4. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES WILL T.C. OR P.V.R. BOOKS BE GIVEN TO
OR EXCHANGED WITH OTHER DISTRICTS OR UNITS.
______________________________________________________________________________
4. PREPARATION AND ISSUANCE OF TRAFFIC CITATIONS AND PARKING
VIOLATION REPORTS
A. Upon receipt of a traffic citation (TC) book, the receiving officer will:
1. Examine each book received to ensure that all tickets are present and in consecutive
order. Immediately return defective books to the ORS for replacement. Sign the
75-189 for books issued. Record required information on the front of the book and
the TVR Control Log (75-430). Attach the 75-430 to the ticket book.
a. Traffic Citation books will contain 20 tickets per book.
b. Parking Violation Report books will contain 25 tickets per book.
B. When preparing a TC, the officer will print all required information in the spaces
provided using a ballpoint pen. After completing the violation, check all copies for
legibility and completeness.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 4
1. When two police officers assigned to the same police vehicle, stop a motorist for
violations of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code and/or Philadelphia Traffic Code, and
more than one TC is issued as a result of the same incident, only one officer will
issue the TC(s) for that incident.
2. Officer(s) will prepare a 75-48A on all occupied vehicle investigations. The
number of TCs issued and the citation number will be included in the additional
information section of the 75-48A.
C. Traffic Citations (TC)--Follow the block-by-block instructions in Appendix “A” of this
directive to properly complete a TC.
1. WHEN ISSUING A TRAFFIC CITATION, THE ISSUING OFFICER WILL
ENTER A COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE INCIDENT IN THE
REMARKS SECTION OF EACH CITATION THAT IS BEING ISSUED.
Additionally, when the defendant cannot provide a driver’s license (Section 1501
and 1511 of the Vehicle Code) a description of the defendant will be entered in the
remarks section.
2. In cases where the defendant is not given a copy of the citation (i.e., abandoned
autos, AID investigation), the date the TC was sent to Traffic Court will be entered
and the “filed” section will be marked in block 64 on the TC. In these cases, all
copies of the citation, including the defendant’s copy, will be forwarded to Traffic
Court. An explanation of why the ticket was not given to the operator will be
recorded in the remarks section. In addition, any other information that will help
identify the vehicle, the vehicle’s owner and/or operator will also be listed. Traffic
Court will ensure the defendant’s copy is mailed to the defendant.
3. When issuing a TC for Section 1301, 1311 and 1786 (C) (F) of the Vehicle Code,
the violator may provide in person, documentation within five (5) calendar days to
Traffic Court for adjudication of the specified traffic violations. When issuing a
TC for sections 1501 and 1511 of the Vehicle Code, the violator may provide in
person, documentation within fifteen (15) calendar days to Traffic Court for
adjudication of the specified traffic violations. For all other violations, the violator
must respond within ten (10) calendar days to Philadelphia Traffic Court or an
arrest warrant will be issued.
4. Whenever an officer issues a TC for 1501-A (Driving without a License) or 1543
(Driving while License is Suspended or Revoked), a Bureau of Motor Vehicles
(BMV) check will be made via computer and a copy of the computer printout of the
check will be attached to the “Police” copy of the TC.
D. Parking Violation Reports--Follow the block-by-block instructions in Appendix “B” of
this directive to properly complete a PVR.
E. When an error is made during the preparation of either a TC or a PVR and a
replacement ticket is being prepared, the issuing officer will:
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 5
1. Print “VOID” across the face of the ticket in large bold letters.
a. In the Remarks section of the TC, cite the reason for voiding the current citation
and prepare the next available citation. On the voided citation, list the corrected
TC number.
b. When voiding a PVR, cite the reason for voiding the current PVR in the
“Comments” section and prepare the next available PVR. On the voided PVR,
list the corrected PVR number.
NOTE: Since there is a replacement ticket of the same type being issued in the
above situations, a 75-147 is not needed.
c. When a PVR is improperly written for a TC or a TC is improperly written
for a PVR, prepare the next proper type ticket and submit the voided ticket to
the ORS. Ensure the corrected TC or PVR number is recorded on the voided
ticket.
F. When a TC or PVR is issued due to police error and a replacement ticket is not being
issued, the issuing officer will:
1. Print “VOID” across the face of the ticket in large bold letters.
a. In the remarks section of the TC, cite the reason for voiding the current citation
and submit to the ORS for cancellation.
b. When voiding a PVR, cite the reason for voiding the current PVR in the
“Comments” section and submit to the ORS for cancellation.
NOTE: All voided TCs and PVRs require a 75-147 if there is no replacement
ticket of the same type being issued (see Section 6 of this directive).
G. Selective Enforcement Program
1. The overall objective of the selective enforcement program is the reduction of
vehicle accidents occurring within designated areas through aggressive and
proactive patrol. This can be achieved through the identification of high accident
areas and the subsequent increased uniformed patrol in the targeted areas along
with a zero tolerance traffic enforcement approach.
2. The purpose of the selective enforcement bulletin is to alert uniformed personnel to
high vehicle accident areas within their respective areas of assignments and also the
number of hazardous traffic violations written by police in that same area.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 6
3. Selective enforcement bulletins are issued quarterly to all uniformed patrol
personnel. These bulletins are sent out via the police system computer terminal
during the first three (3) days of the new selective enforcement area period. The
periods are from January to March, April to June, July to September, and October
to December.
4. The information on the selective enforcement bulletin is compiled from a review of
all traffic accident reports taken by police personnel during the previous three (3)
months. The areas noted on these bulletins may change as a result of each review
conducted.
5. Police should concentrate their traffic enforcement efforts whenever possible in
these areas.
6. When issuing a traffic citation (TC) or a parking violation report (PVR) for the
below hazardous violations, personnel will consult the current bulletin to ascertain
if the violation occurred within one of the selective enforcement areas.
a. Hazardous violations are:
1) reckless driving
2) exceeding speed limit (calibrated vehicles only)
3) wrong side of road
4) outside authorized lane
5) following too closely
6) improper passing
7) improper turning
8) no or improper signal
9) failure to yield right- of- way (pedestrians/vehicles)
10) failure to obey traffic signals
11) failure to obey traffic signs and markings
12) failure to obey a police officer
13) passing a school bus
14) driving through safety zone
15) wrong way, one way street
16) improper use of lights
17) defective lights
18) defective brakes
19) parking on bridge; tunnel; ramp or double
b. Hazardous traffic violations occurring in an area covered on the bulletin will
be noted on block #45 of the Traffic Citation (refer to Appendix “A” – Traffic
Citation (TC) preparation instructions) in order to alert Traffic Court that the
violation occurred within a selective enforcement area.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 7
c. Hazardous parking violations occurring in an area covered on the bulletin will
be noted on the PVR in block #9. (Refer to Appendix “B”, Parking Violation
Report (PVR) Preparation Instructions) in order to alert the parking authority
that the violation occurred within a selective enforcement area.
d. Traffic Court/Parking Authority in turn will use this information when deciding
on the severity of punishment to the ticket recipient, if any fines and/or
punishment are appropriate.
e. The recording of hazardous traffic tickets issued in the selective enforcement
areas is essential for accurate selective enforcement bulletins.
7. A copy of the current selective enforcement bulletin will be carried by uniformed
police officers and sergeants while performing a patrol function. Personnel will
become familiar with the selective enforcement areas in their areas of assignment.
8. Uniformed patrol supervisors will be aware of these areas and monitor whether
proper procedures are being followed.
H. Verbal Warnings
1. Determination of whether to issue a traffic citation or give a verbal warning are
based on the discretionary judgment of the officer with regard to such
circumstances as the nature of the offense, location of the incident, time of day,
etc. When using discretionary judgment to issue a motorist a verbal warning,
sworn personnel will indicate such a warning by written notation on their patrol
activity logs and 75-48A’s when given during a vehicle investigation/car stop and
on their patrol activity logs when given to parking violators. (PLEAC 2.4.1)
2. While officers are given discretion to issue verbal warnings, in situations which
fall under the “Live Stop” provisions, personnel will strictly adhere to guidelines
listed in Directive 12.8, Appendix B “Live Stop Program.”
______________________________________________________________________________
5. REVIEW AND PROCESSING OF TRAFFIC VIOLATION REPORTS (TVR)
A. Uniformed Supervisors will:
1. Regularly review TCs issued for completeness, accuracy, and legibility with
specific attention given to ensure there is an appropriate reason for a TC being
checked “filed” in block 64.
2. When reviewing TCs, compare against the current selective enforcement bulletin
to determine if selective enforcement areas are being monitored for hazardous
violations.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 8
B. The Operations Room Supervisor (ORS) will ensure that:
1. Traffic violation reports from the previous tour are separated into two categories,
TCs and PVRs, and prepare an original and three copies of the Ticket Transmittal
List (75-164) for each category of ticket.
a. A separate 75-164 must be prepared for each tour of duty.
2. Traffic violation report control numbers are recorded in numerical order (include
all voided tickets) on each set of Ticket Transmittal Lists.
EXCEPTION: When the correction ticket is not in numerical order with the
voided ticket, list the correction ticket number immediately after
the voided ticket number and place an asterisk (*) to the left of the
correction ticket number to identify it as an out-of-sequence
correction ticket.
a. When entering a voided traffic violation report on the transmittal, type
“VOID” in the PVC/TCO box on the 75-164.
3. The total number of tickets being transmitted is posted in the spaces provided at the
bottom right-hand corner of each 75-164. The only exception is a voided ticket,
which has no replacement. In these cases, list the voided ticket on the 75-164, with
the required 75-147 attached, but do not include the voided ticket in the total
number of tickets issued.
4. The rank, name, and badge number of the person preparing the transmittal is typed
in the appropriate box on all copies of the 75-164. The ORS will personally sign
each copy of the 75-164. No facsimile or carbon signatures are permitted.
5. If a correction ticket has not been prepared, a 75-147 will be submitted along with
the voided ticket to the Commanding Officer for review and signature.
NOTE: This does not apply when a TC was improperly written for a PVR or a
PVR was improperly written for a TC. Follow cancellation
instructions as outlined in Section 6 of this directive.
6. Traffic Citations will not be broken down and will be transmitted as one document
and in numerical order to Traffic Court. Attach the original and two copies of the
75-164 to all the TCs and send them to the Police Liaison Officer, Traffic Court, in
the provided Traffic Court Moving Violation transit bag, which will be locked and
placed in the outgoing mail. Retain one copy of the 75-164 for the district/unit
files.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 9
7. Parking Violation Reports will be attached to the original and one copy of the
75-164 and placed in the provided Parking Authority transit bag. The bag will then
be locked and placed in the outgoing mail. Send one copy of the 75-164 to the
Police Liaison Officer, Traffic Court and retain one copy for the district/unit files.
8. When transmitting voided TCs or PVRs, the voided TC or PVR will be stapled on
top of the corrected ticket.
NOTE: This procedure does not apply to a voided PVR being replaced with a
corrected TC, or a voided TC being replaced with a corrected PVR. List
the “VOIDED” in the PVC/TCO box. Transmit the corrected ticket in the
normal manner.
9. On a tour of duty where no TCs were issued, an original and two copies of the
75-164 will be prepared. In the space provided for the entry of the first TC
number, type “No Traffic Citations issued”, and enter a zero (0) in the bottom
right-hand corner box entitled “Total TVRs Transmitted”. Route the original and
one copy of the 75-164 to the Police Liaison Officer, Traffic Court, and retain one
copy for the district/unit files.
10. On a tour of duty where no PVRs were issued, an original and two copies of the
75-164 will be prepared. In the space provided for the entry of the first PVR
number, type “No Parking Violation Reports Issued”, and enter a zero (0) in the
bottom right-hand corner box entitled “Total PVRs Transmitted”. Route the
original of the 75-164 to the Parking Authority, a copy to the Police Liaison
Officer, Traffic Court, and retain one copy for the district/unit files.
C. The Commanding Officer, Traffic Court Liaison Unit will ensure that:
1. The Commanding Officer of any district/unit failing to submit a 75-164 will be
notified by memorandum.
______________________________________________________________________________
6. CANCELLATION OF TRAFFIC VOLATIONS (TCs OR PVRs) REPORTS
ISSUED BY POLICE
A. Only a Traffic Court Judge can cancel a TC.
B. Only the parking authority and/or a Bureau of Administration Hearing Examiner can
cancel a PVR.
C. Requests for cancellation of TCs or PVRs will be accepted under the following
circumstances:
1. When the issuing officer voids a violation and prepares a correct/proper
replacement violation.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 10
2. When the violation report was lost or damaged.
3. When the violation was issued to a vehicle or registration plate that was officially
reported stolen or lost prior to the issuance of the violation.
4. When the violation was issued due to police error.
D. Preparation of the Request for Cancellation Form (75-147)
1. The ORS will prepare a 75-147 in quadruplicate:
a. When a TC was improperly written for a PVR or a PVR was improperly written
for a TC, record the following information on the 75-147:
1) Voided ticket number.
2) Correction ticket number.
3) Name, rank, and badge number of issuing officer.
4) Reason for cancellation.
b. When a traffic violation report was lost or damaged, record the following
information on the 75-147:
1) All facts surrounding the loss or damage.
2) The lost or damaged ticket(s) number(s)
3) When loss or damaged occurred while in the officer’s possession, include
the officer’s name, rank, badge number, and platoon.
c. When a ticket was issued to a vehicle or registration plate that was officially
reported stolen or lost prior to issuance of a violation, the ORS will inform the
complainant to wait for a letter from Traffic Court or the Parking Authority and
bring such notice to any district/unit for cancellation.
1. When the letter is presented for cancellation, the ORS will enter the
following information on the 75-147:
a) District Complaint Number
b) Date and time reported stolen
c) Date and time recovered--If not recovered, so state
d) General Radio Message number on theft, if applicable
e) Computer general number of theft or theft cancellation, if
recovered
f) Summons number, date, time, location, and violation from the ticket
d. When a ticket was issued due to police error and a replacement ticket of the
same type is not prepared, enter the following information on the 75-147 and
submit to the commanding officer for approval:
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 11
1) Voided ticket number
2) Name, rank, and badge number of issuing officer
3) Explanation of why the ticket was voided without a replacement ticket
being issued.
4) Handicapped placard number (when a PVR was issued in error to a
properly designated handicapped vehicle).
5) Residential Parking Permit (RPP) number (When a PVR was issued in
error to a properly designated RPP vehicle which is legally parked in an
area covered on the RPP permit displayed).
E. Processing TVR Cancellation Requests
1. The ORS will ensure that a 75-147 is properly prepared for each voided TC or PVR
issued when there is no correction ticket of the same type issued. Prepare the
75-147 in quadruplicate by typing their name, rank, and badge number in the
appropriate block and sign each copy above their typed name.
a. When replacing an improperly written TC with a PVR or an improperly written
PVR with a TC, a 75-147 in quadruplicate will be prepared. Transmit the
voided ticket and the original and two copies of the 75-147 to Police Liaison
Traffic Court. The Police Liaison Officer, Traffic Court, will review and
forward voided PVRs and 75-147s to the Philadelphia Parking Authority.
Retain the last copy of the 75-147 in the district/unit files. Cancellations of this
type do not need command approval.
b. If a replacement ticket was not prepared, forward the 75-147 and the voided
Ticket to the Commanding Officer for review and approval.
2. The Commanding Officer, upon approval of the cancellation requests submitted,
will sign each copy of the 75-147 and distribute the original and two copies along
with the TC or PVR to Police Liaison, Traffic Court. Retain the last copy of the
75-147 in the district/unit files.
3. The Traffic Court Liaison Officer/Supervisor will:
a. Upon receipt of canceled PVRs, review 75-147 and forward to the Philadelphia
Parking Authority.
______________________________________________________________________________
7. CANCELLATION OF TRAFFIC VIOLATIONS (TCs OR PVRs), RED LIGHT
CAMERA, SPEED TIMING CAMERA AND TOLL BOOTH VIOLATIONS ISSUED
TO POLICE VEHICLES.
A. The operator of a City vehicle or city leased vehicle being used for official City
business, will be responsible for any TC, PVR, Red Light Camera, Speed Timing
Camera and Toll Booth Violations and fines incurred for non-payment, while the
vehicle was under the employee’s control unless exigent circumstances exist at the time
of violation.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 12
B. Traffic Violations (TC or PVR), Red Light Camera, Speed Timing Camera, and Toll
Booth Violations issued to a police vehicle while being used for authorized official
business, the officer will:
1. Provide the TC or PVR to the ORS.
2. Provide details of exigent circumstances (if applicable)
C. The ORS when cancelling a violation will:
1. Prepare a 75-147 quadruplicate, detailing the following:
a. Facts showing the vehicle ticketed is a city-owned or city-leased being used for
authorized official business at the time the ticket was issued.
b. State exigent circumstances
c. Vehicle Property Number
d. Ticket number, violation, date, time, and location of issuance.
e. Operators name, rank, and badge number.
2. A form letter found at the end of this directive will be prepared, attached and
submitted with each 75-147 along with the TC or PVR in this category through the
chain of command as follows:
a. District/Unit Commanding Officers will forward the 75-147, TC/PVR and the
form letter through the chain of command to the Deputy Commissioner, Field
Operations who will review and approve the cancellation, affix their signature
to the form letter, and forward to the appropriate issuing authority.
D. When a violation notice is not in the possession of the officer (TC, PVR, Red Light
Camera, Speed Timing Camera or Toll Booth Violations):
1. Office of Fleet Management identifies all violations (delinquent and current)
incurred by department employees using city-owned or city-leased vehicles for
authorized official business who forwards the violation notices to Automotive
Services.
2. Automotive Services upon receiving the violation notices will forward the notices
to the Chief Inspector, Organizational Strategy and Innovations who will forward
the notices to the Deputy Commissioner, Field Operations.
3. Deputy Commissioner, Field Operations will notify pertinent Commanding
Officers of any violations committed by their officers, which have not been
adjudicated.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 13
a. Commanding Officers will ensure that the officer responsible for the violation
(TC, PVR, Red Light Camera, Speed Timing Camera, or Toll Booth
Violations) either adjudicates the violation at the proper issuing authority or is
held financially responsible for the violation. Appropriate disciplinary action
will be taken against any personnel who fail to satisfy or adjudicate incurred
violations, the Commanding Officers will send an action and report back to the
Deputy Commissioner, Field Operations detailing for each violation the
actions taken.
______________________________________________________________________________
8. MOTOR VEHICLE CODE, SECTION §4581: OCCUPANT PROTECTION LAWS
A. In order to effect a reduction in the number of traffic injuries and fatalities and to
maximize the safety of the motoring public, police personnel will enforce statutes
governing the use of occupant restraint systems in conformance with the procedures
and provisions outlined in this memorandum.
B. Definitions
1. Safety Seat Belt System - Any strap, webbing, or similar device including buckles,
fasteners, and all installation hardware, as specified by Federal Vehicle Safety
Standards, designed to secure a person in a motor vehicle in order to lessen the
results of any accident.
2. Child Passenger Restraint System - A system (e.g., car seat) designed to secure a
child in a motor vehicle in order to lessen the results of any accident. Such systems
must meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (49 CFR 571.213) and must be
used as designated by the manufacturer.
3. Motor Vehicle - For purposes of this memorandum, a motor vehicle is defined as
Any passenger car, Class I or Class II truck, classic motor vehicle, antique motor
vehicle, or motor home.
C. Enforcement Procedures
1. Whenever an operator of a motor vehicle is found in violation of Child Passenger
Restraint Laws, Section §4581(a)(1), police personnel will:
a. Conduct a vehicle investigation in accordance with procedures outlined in
Directive 12.8, entitled “Vehicle and Pedestrian Investigations”.
b. Prepare a Vehicle or Pedestrian Investigation Report (75-48A) listing the
operator of the vehicle and all pertinent information.
c. Issue a TVR for a violation of this section.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 14
D. Whenever an operator of a motor vehicle is found to be in violation of Front Seat
Occupant Restraint Laws, Section §4581(A)(2), police personnel will:
1. Issue a TVR for a violation of this section only when issuing a TVR for a violation
of any other provision of the Motor Vehicle Code which occurred at the same time.
NOTE: No person shall be convicted of a violation of Section §4581(A)(2) unless
that person is also convicted of another violation of the Motor Vehicle
Code which occurred at the same time. (Therefore, a TVR for a violation
of Section §4581(A)(2) must be incidental to any other TVR issued for a
violation of the Motor Vehicle Code.)
2. In addition to other pertinent remarks, include in the remarks section of the
incidental TVR, the citation number and the Motor Vehicle Code section under
which the primary TVR was issued. (Example: “Operator was originally issued
Citation #XXXXX for a violation of Section §3310, ‘Following Too Closely’”.)
E. Provisions Occupant Protection Laws
1. Section §4581(A)(1): Child Passenger Restraint Law
“Any person who is operating a (motor vehicle) registered in Pennsylvania and
who transports a child under four years of age anywhere in the motor vehicle,
including the cargo area, shall fasten such child securely in a child passenger
restraint system.”
NOTE: If a person receives a TVR for a violation of this section, they can waive
the fine upon presenting evidence of the acquisition of a child passenger
restraint system to the appropriate court officer prior to, or at their court
hearing.
2. Section §4581(A)(2): Front Seat Occupant Restraint Law
“Except for children under four years of age and except as provided in Section §
4581(a)(1), each driver and front seat occupant of a motor vehicle shall wear a
properly adjusted and fastened safety seat belt system. The driver of a passenger
automobile shall secure or cause to be secured in such a system any occupant in the
front seat who is four (4) years of age or older and less than 18 years of age. This
paragraph shall not apply to:
a. A driver or front seat occupant of any vehicle manufactured before July 1,
1966.
b. A driver or front seat occupant who possesses a written verification from a
physician or psychiatrist that they are unable to wear a safety seat belt for
physical/medical or psychological reasons.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 15
c. A Rural Letter Carrier while operating any motor vehicle in the performance of
duties between the first and last delivery points.
d. A driver who makes frequent stops and is traveling less than 15 miles per hour
for the purpose of delivering goods or services while in the performance of their
duties and only between the first and last delivery points.”
______________________________________________________________________________
9. PENNSYLVANIA GRADUATED LICENSING PROGRAM
A. Pennsylvania Law
1. Current State legislation imposes certain restrictions on Learner’s Permits and
Junior Driver’s Licenses issued to young drivers in Pennsylvania (those persons
aged 16-17). Contained herein are some of the provisions as well as the statute
sections of the Motor Vehicle Laws of Pennsylvania (Vehicle Code) regarding this
restrictions. The new restrictions were created to increase the level of driving skills
for young drivers and applies to permits and licensing to operate both automobiles
and motorcycles.
B. Learner’s Permit, Under 18 Years of Age
1. A six-month skill-building period to practice and gain experience is required before
a young driver may take the road test for a junior license.
2. A parent or guardian must certify to the Pennsylvania Department of
Transportation at the time of application for a Junior Driver’s License that the
young driver’s six (6) months of skill-building included at least 50 hours of
practical, adult supervised driving experience.
3. A licensed driver aged 21 or older must accompany the young driver at all times
(Section §1505 (b) of the Vehicle Code).
4. The young driver may not be behind the wheel between the hours of 11:00 p.m.
and 5:00 a.m. (Section §1503 (c) 1 of the Vehicle Code).
a. Young drivers may travel for employment and for volunteer or charitable
service during the restricted hours, provided they are carrying a certificate of
authorization or affidavit from their employer, or volunteer or charity service.
There is no standard form. It is preferred that the affidavit be affixed with the
company or charity letterhead and signed by an appropriate supervisor.
NOTE: This exemption does not extend to school activities, such as sports,
dances, or other social or extracurricular activities.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 16
b. Young drivers found violating the nighttime driving restrictions without a
certificate of authorization or affidavit, should be cited for violating Section
§1503 (c) 1 of the Vehicle Code.
5. The number of passengers must not exceed the number of seatbelts in the vehicle.
a. Young drivers found violating the passenger to seatbelt restriction should be
cited for violating §Section 4581 (a) (3) of the Vehicle Code.
NOTE: This applies to all drivers under the age of 18.
6. The learner’s permit will be valid for one year, with extensions for those requiring
more practice time.
7. A young driver's permit will be suspended for 90 days if they accumulate six (6) or
more points or is convicted of a single high-speed violation (driving 26 miles per
hour or more over the posted speed limit).
C. Junior License:
1. Upon satisfactorily completing all learner’s permit requirements, including the
road test, the following restrictions will still apply to anyone with a Junior Driver’s
License:
a. A junior operator license will be suspended for 90 days if they accumulate six
(6) or more points or is convicted of a single high-speed violation (driving 26
miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit).
b. A person operating with a junior license may not be behind the wheel during
the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. (Section §1501(c ) 1 of the Vehicle
Code).
NOTE: Exceptions for employment and volunteer or charitable service still
apply, provided the driver carries a certificate of authorization or
affidavit regarding their need to travel. There is no standard form.
It is preferred that the authorization be affixed with the company or
charity letterhead and signed by an appropriate supervisor. This
exemption does not extend to school activities, such as sports, dances,
or other social or extracurricular activities.
c. The number of passengers must not exceed the number of seat belts in the
vehicle. This applies to all drivers under the age of 18 (Section §4581 (a) (3) of
the Vehicle Code).
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 17
D. Unrestricted License
1. A young driver may apply for an unrestricted license before the age of 18 provided
they maintain an accident and conviction-free record for 12 months and has
completed an approved driver’s education course.
2. The number of passengers must not exceed the number of seat belts in the vehicle.
This applies to all drivers under the age of 18, (Section §4581 (a) (3) of the Vehicle
Code).
3. A young driver’s unrestricted operator license will be suspended for 90 days if
they accumulate six (6) or more points or is convicted of a single high-speed
violation (driving 26 miles per hour or more over the posted speed limit).
______________________________________________________________________________
10. MOTOR CARRIERS ROAD TAX
A. It is the policy of the Philadelphia Police Department to enforce all highway statutes
promulgated under the Motor Vehicle Laws of Pennsylvania (Vehicle Code) as well as
to promote highway safety. The Motor Carriers Road Tax Statute, Chapter 21 of the
Vehicle Code, can be an effective tool used to conduct investigations of vehicles and
persons that police would otherwise not encounter.
1. If you have any questions regarding the Motor Carriers Road Tax contact the Police
Traffic Division, Truck Enforcement Unit at (215) XXX-XXXX.
B. Definitions
1. “IFTA” – The International Fuel Tax Agreement.
2. “Qualified Motor Vehicle” – A motor vehicle, other than a recreational vehicle,
which is used, designed or maintained for transportation of persons or property and:
a. Having two axles and a gross weight or registered gross weight exceeding
26,001 pounds or more.
b. Having three or more axles regardless of weight.
c. Used in combination, when the gross weight or registered gross weight of the
combination exceeds 26,001 pounds.
NOTE: If there is no registered gross weight, then the gross vehicle weight
rating (GVWR) or gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of the
motor vehicle shall be used.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 18
C. Enforcement
1. Identification markers and licenses or road tax registration cards shall be issued on
a 12-month basis, effective January 1 of each year, and shall be valid through
December 31. Enforcement of this section shall not become effective until March 1
of each year.
NOTE: Enforcement begins each year on March 1
st
, in order to allow for out-of-
state operators to obtain identification markers and license or road tax
registration cards.
2. Operators of new qualified motor vehicles must carry an IFTA application card
which will be valid up to one year from issuance or the registration card.
3. All qualified motor vehicles required to display the identification markers shall
permanently affix such identification markers to the exterior portion of both doors of
the cab.
4. A legible copy of the IFTA license issued to the motor carrier shall be carried in
the cab of any qualified motor vehicle subject to IFTA.
a. A vehicle registered in Pennsylvania may bear IFTA stickers from another
state.
D. Exemptions
1. The following vehicles are exempt from the listed requirements:
a. A Pennsylvania registered farm truck complying with the Vehicle Code,
Section §1344.
b. A Pennsylvania farm truck exempt from registration if in compliance with the
Vehicle Code, Section §1302 (a) (10).
c. An Emergency Vehicle as defined in the Vehicle Code, Section §102
NOTE: A Tow Truck with a boom is classified as an Emergency Vehicle.
d. A qualified motor vehicle operated on behalf of any department of the
Commonwealth, political subdivision, the District of Columbia, Federal
Government or any other state.
e. A school bus.
f. A motorbus owned or registered to a church.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 19
g. Any implement of husbandry as defined in the Vehicle Code, Section 102.
h. Special mobile equipment as defined in the Vehicle Code, Section 102.
i. An unladed or towed motor vehicle or unladed trailer entering Pennsylvania
solely for repairs.
j. A qualified motor vehicle needing emergency repairs securing authority from
the State Police to enter the Commonwealth under this Section.
k. A commercial implement of husbandry.
______________________________________________________________________________
11. RESIDENT PERMIT PARKING DISTRICTS
A. Chapter §12-2700 of the Philadelphia Code establishes permit parking districts within
the city.
Under the provisions of this ordinance, City Council has designated 27 geographical
permit parking districts. Any resident living within the boundaries of one of these
numbered permit parking districts may apply to the Philadelphia Parking Authority for
a permit. Applications may be obtained by mail or in person at the Philadelphia
*1 Parking Authority Administration Building, 35 North 8
th
Street.
B. A resident parking permit entitles the holder to park their vehicle without regard to
time in any parking area within the specified parking district where posted permit
parking signs restrict parking to two (2) hours, and to park at a meter in the specified
parking district without depositing any fees.
C. A resident parking permit is valid only in areas controlled by parking meters or where
parking is restricted to two (2) hours or less. The permit does not authorize parking in a
“ tow away” zone, “no parking anytime” zone, or in any other area where parking is
otherwise restricted or regulated.
D. A resident parking permit is valid only on those streets within a permit parking district
which have been specifically posted by the Philadelphia Parking Authority with signs
authorizing permit parking.
E. To be valid, a resident parking permit must be placed on the right rear passenger side
window of the vehicle.
F. Newer permits will have the expiration date as well as the first and last characters of the
license plate punched accordingly.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 20
G. Prior to issuing a Traffic Citation (TC) for parking in excess of a posted two-hour limit
or for a meter violation, police officers will check the right rear passenger side window
of the vehicle to ascertain whether or not a valid resident parking permit is displayed.
In addition, officers will check to ensure that the particular street has been posted by
the Streets Department with signs authorizing permit parking. If either permit or signs
(or both) are missing, a TC will be issued.
H. Where permit parking districts adjoin, an overlapping zone will be created to extend
one block into each of the adjoining Police Districts, in which permits from either of
the parking districts will be valid.
______________________________________________________________________________
12. LIST OF PERMIT PARKING DISTRICTS:
Parking District 1--Rittenhouse
Boundaries are as follows:
West side of Broad Street on the east,
East side of 30
th
Street on the west,
South side of Market Street on the north,
North side of Washington Avenue on the south.
Parking District 2--West Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of Market Street, on the north,
SEPTA high-speed line tracks (EL) on the east and south,
the Cobbs Creek on the west.
Parking District 3--West Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
SEPTA regional high-speed line tracks on the east and north,
City Line Avenue on the west,
the Cobbs Creek on the southwest,
North side of Market Street on the south.
Parking District 4--Washington Square- West
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of Market Street, on the north,
West side of Seventh Street, on the east,
North side of South Street, on the south,
East side of Broad Street, on the west.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 21
Parking District 5--Society Hill
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of Market Street, on the north,
North side of South Street, on the south,
East side of Seventh Street, on the west,
the Delaware River on the east.
Parking District 6--Logan Square
Boundaries are as follows:
West side of Broad Street, on the east,
North side of Market Street, on the south,
the Schuylkill River on the west,
South side of Fairmount Avenue, on the north (to its intersection with 27
th
Street).
Parking District 7--Queen Village
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of South Street, on the north,
North side of Wharton Street, on the south,
East side of Sixth Street, on the west,
the Delaware River on the east.
Parking District 8--East Falls
Boundaries are as follows:
Wissahickon Avenue, on the east,
Wissahickon Creek on the north,
Ridge Avenue, on the west,
Hunting Park Avenue, on the south.
Parking District 9--North Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
West side of Broad Street, on the east ,
East side of 32
nd
Street on the west,
South side of Lehigh Avenue, on the north,
North side of Montgomery Avenue on the south.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 22
Parking District 10--Chinatown/Old City
Boundaries are as follows:
North side of Market Street, on the south,
South side of Girard Avenue, on the north,
the Delaware River on the east,
East side of Broad Street, on the west.
Parking District 11--Fern Rock/Feltonville
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of Cheltenham Avenue, on the north,
East side of Broad Street, on the west,
Roosevelt Boulevard. on the south,
SEPTA regional high speed line tracks on 9
th
Street,
Ninth Street to Roosevelt Boulevard on the east.
Parking District 12--Frankford
Boundaries are as follows:
West side of Oxford Avenue to Wakeling Street,
South side of Wakeling Street to the Regional High-Speed Line,
West side of the Regional High-Speed Line to the Frankford Creek,
Frankford Creek to Castor Avenue and the east side of Castor Avenue to Oxford
Avenue.
Parking District 13--Hunting Park
Boundaries are as follows:
Broad Street on the west,
5
th
Street on the east,
Roosevelt Boulevard on the north,
SEPTA regional high-speed line tracks on the south.
Parking District 14--West Oak Lane/Germantown
Boundaries are as follows:
Broad Street on the east,
Hunting Park Avenue on the south,
Wissahickon Avenue on the west,
Mt. Pleasant Avenue on the northwest and Stenton Avenue on the northeast.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 23
Parking District 15--Manayunk
Boundaries are as follows:
The Schuylkill River on the west,
the Wissahickon Creek on the south and the east,
Germantown Avenue on the northeast and Northwestern Avenue on the northwest.
Parking District 16--Lehigh/Somerset
Boundaries are as follows:
North side of Lehigh Avenue, on the south,
West side of Broad Street, on the east,
Ridge Avenue on the west,
South side of Hunting Park Avenue, on the north.
Parking District 17--Fairmount
Boundaries are as follows:
North side of Fairmount Avenue, on the south,
West side of Broad Street, on the east ,
South side of Montgomery Avenue, on the north,
Fairmount Park on the west.
Parking District 18--Olney
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of Cheltenham Avenue, on the north,
the Tacony Creek on the east, Roosevelt Boulevard on the south,
SEPTA regional high-speed line tracks to 9
th
Street
9
th
Street to Roosevelt Boulevard on the west.
Parking District 19--Port Richmond
Boundaries are as follows:
North side of Allegheny Avenue, on the south,
South side of Castor Avenue, on the north,
East side of Frankford Avenue, on the west,
Interstate I-95 on the east.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 24
Parking District 20--Juniata Park
Boundaries are as follows:
The Frankford Creek on the north and east,
Kensington Avenue, on the southeast,
Erie Avenue, on the south,
“G” Street, on the west,
Ramona Street, on the northwest.
Parking District 21--Chestnut Hill
Boundaries are as follows:
Stenton Avenue, on the east,
Northwestern Avenue, on the north,
the Chesham Creek on the south,
the Wissahickon Creek on the west.
Parking District 22--South Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of South Street on the north,
West side of 6
th
Street on the east,
East side of Broad Street on the west,
North side of Washington Avenue on the south.
Parking District 23--South Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of Washington Avenue, on the north,
West side of 6
th
Street, on the east ,
East side of Broad Street, on the west,
North side of Morris Street, on the south.
Parking District 24--South Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of Morris Street on the north,
West side of 6
th
Street on the east,
East side of Broad Street on the west,
North side of Oregon Avenue on the south.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 25
Parking District 25--Kensington
Boundaries are as follows:
North side of Girard Avenue on the south,
South side of Allegheny Avenue, on the north,
Interstate I-95 on the east,
East side of Kensington Avenue to York Street, to the east side of 6
th
Street on the west.
Parking District 26--South Philadelphia (west side)
Boundaries are as follows:
West side of Broad Street, on the east,
South side of Washington Avenue, on the north,
North side of Morris Street, on the south,
the Schuylkill River on the west.
Parking District 27--South Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
North side of Oregon Avenue, on the south,
South side of Morris street, on the north,
West side of Broad Street, on the east,
the Schuylkill River on the west.
Parking District 28 South Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of Oregon Avenue on the north,
West side of Broad Street on the east,
Along the Schuylkill River to its intersection with Passyunk Avenue on the west,
the Delaware River reserve basin on the south.
Parking District 29 South Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
South side of Oregon Avenue on the north,
the Delaware River on the south and east,
East side of Broad Street on the west.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 26
Parking District 30 North Philadelphia
Boundaries are as follows:
East side of Broad Street on the west,
SEPTA regional high speed line tracks on the north,
North side of Girard Avenue on the south,
West side of Front Street on the east.
______________________________________________________________________________
RELATED PROCEDURES: Directive 9.6, Vehicular Accidents
Directive 12.8, Vehicle and Pedestrian Investigations
______________________________________________________________________________
PLEAC Conforms to the standards according to the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement
Accreditation Commission.
______________________________________________________________________________
BY COMMAND OF THE POLICE COMMISSIONER
______________________________________________________________________________
FOOTNOTE GENERAL# DATE SENT REMARKS
*1 8583 09-01-17 Changes
*2 7005 11-02-17 Change
*3 1314 06-11-19 Change
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 27
EXAMPLE
_________________
(Date)
Corinne O’Connor
Deputy Executive Director
Philadelphia Parking Authority
701 Market Street
Suite 5400
Phila, PA 19106
Re: Vehicle Registration #:____________, City Property #: ____________,
Vehicle owner (if other than City): _____________________________
Dear _________________
This employee, ______________________, Payroll # _________, of the City of
Philadelphia, Police Department, received a parking violation.
On the date and time indicated, _______________, was conducting official Police
Department business in the area of_____________________________________,
On the date of ___________________ at approximately ___________ a.m. /p.m.
During this period, the enclosed parking violation(s), Citation(s) # ____________
____________________________________ was issued to the vehicle used
by this employee in the discharge of his/her duties.
Please schedule an administrative review of this citation(s).
Sincerely,
_______________________
(Signature of Commanding Officer)
_______________________
(Rank/Title)
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 1
APPENDIX “A”
PHILADELPHIA POLICE DEPARTMENT DIRECTIVE 3.2
APPENDIX “A”
SUBJECT: TRAFFIC CITATION (TC) PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS
______________________________________________________________________________
1. PROCEDURE
A. The following is a block-by-block description for the proper preparation of the Traffic
Citation (TC). When preparing a TC, the officer will print all required information in
the spaces provided using a ballpoint pen ensuring sufficient pressure to ensure
legibility on all copies. After completing the citation, check all copies for legibility and
completeness.
BLOCK 1: DRIVER NO.
Enter the defendant’s Operator’s License Number (OLN) appearing on the
driver’s license. If no driver’s license is produced, or no operator’s license
number is known, leave this space blank.
BLOCK 2: C.D.L. (COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE)
Mark this block if the operator has a Commercial Driver’s License.
BLOCK 3: STATE
Place an “X” in the box if the defendant has provided a Pennsylvania Driver’s
License, or enter the standard abbreviation of the state, which issued the
defendant’s driver’s license. (Do not enter this information if Driver’s Number
is unknown.)
BLOCK 4: D.O.B. (DATE OF BIRTH)
Enter month, day, and year of the defendant’s birth. MUST BE SIX DIGITS.
(Example: 10/05/70)
BLOCK 5: SEX
Place an “X” in the block designating the defendant’s sex.
BLOCK 6: DEFENDANT’S FIRST NAME, MIDDLE NAME, and LAST NAME
Enter the first, middle, and last name of the defendant as it appears on the
driver’s license.
Issued Date: 03-21-12
Effective Date: 03-21-12
Updated Date:
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 2
APPENDIX “A”
BLOCK 7: DEFENDANT’S STREET ADDRESS
Enter the address of the defendant. If the defendant has moved since issuance
of the driver’s license and does not have a change of address, enter the present
address in this block and the old address in the Remarks section (Block 57) at
the bottom of the citation.
BLOCK 8: CITY
Enter the city as it appears on the defendant’s driver’s license.
BLOCK 9: STATE
Place an “X” in the box provided if the defendant is a Pennsylvania resident, or
enter the standard abbreviation of the state where the defendant resides as it
appears on the defendant’s driver’s license.
BLOCK 10: ZIP CODE
Enter the zip code assigned to the area in which the defendant resides as it
appears on the defendant’s driver’s license.
BLOCK 11: OWNER’S NAME (if different from defendant)
Enter the owner’s name as it appears on the registration card. If the owner and
operator is the same person, leave this block blank.
BLOCK 11A: IDENTIFICATION SOURCE
Check the block for the appropriate source of documentation that supports the
information entered in block #11.
BLOCK 12: OWNER’S ADDRESS (if different from defendant)
Enter the owner’s address. If the owner has moved since issuance of the
registration card and does not have a change of address, enter the present
address in this block and the old address in the Remark section (Block 57).
BLOCK 13: VEHICLE REGISTRATION NO.
Enter the registration number of the vehicle being operated. If the violator is
operating a bicycle print the word “BICYCLE” in this block.
BLOCK 14: REG. YR.
Enter the last two (2) digits of the registration year.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 3
APPENDIX “A”
BLOCK 15: STATE
Place an “X” in the box provided if the vehicle is registered in the State of
Pennsylvania, or enter the standard abbreviation of the state that issued the
registration plate.
BLOCK 16: MAKE
Enter the specific make of the vehicle. (Example: Lincoln, Saab, Ford,
Subaru)
BLOCK 17: TYPE
Enter the standard abbreviation of the type of vehicle.
Ambulance AMS
Bus BUS
Bicycle BY
Convertible CONV
Coupe CP
Fire Truck FT
Hearse HEAR
House Trailer HT
Implement of Husbandry IMP
Mobile Home MH
Moped MOPD
Motorcycle MC
Motor Driven Cycle MODC
Motor Home HC
Omnibus OBUS
Pedacycle PCY
Roadster RD
School Bus SBUS
Sedan SDN
Snowmobile SNO
Special Mobile Equipment SME
Station Wagon SW
Taxi TAXI
Touring Car TR
Trailer TRL
Truck TK
Truck Tractor TT
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 4
APPENDIX “A”
BLOCK 18: COLOR
Enter the color of the vehicle. Try to be as descriptive as possible using
only basic colors. For cars with two different colors, separate the colors
with a slash (example: red/blue).
BLOCK 19 If two or more vehicles are linked (e.g. tractor-trailer, tow truck), use
TO 24: these blocks to enter the registration information of the linked vehicles.
BLOCK 25: VIOLATION TYPE
Check “Vehicle Code” or “Ordinance.” Then check “Filed on Information
Received,” “Active Work Zone,” “Lab Services Requested,” or “Safety
Corridor” if any of these apply. Finally, enter the total fine due in accordance
with current Traffic Court fine schedules.
NOTE: Several fines on the citation book cover have been designated as
escalating fines. The Total Due block will be left blank for any
violation that has an asterisk (*) in the “Fine” column of the citation
book cover. The defendant will be advised that he/she must appear at
Traffic Court in these instances as explained on the back of the
defendant’s copy of the citation.
BLOCK 26: CHARGE SECTION & SUBSECTION
Enter the appropriate section and subsection violated in either the Vehicle Code
or local ordinance. Enter the exact title of the section violated as shown in the
Vehicle Code (example: Overtaking Vehicle on the Right) or the exact title of
the City Ordinance).
BLOCK 27: NATURE OF OFFENSE
Enter a brief but sufficient summary of the facts to advise the defendant of the
nature of the charge against him/her (example: Improper Overtaking of a
Vehicle on the Right, Passed on Shoulder). If the description of the offense
being entered in this block is the same as listed in Block 25, leave this block
blank. Do not enter “Same as Above.”
NOTE: If the citation is filed on the basis of information received either by a
civilian or by another police officer, check the block “FILED ON
INFORMATION RECEIVED” in Block 25.
BLOCK 28: SPEED TIMED
Enter the speed, if applicable, that the defendant’s vehicle was timed or
estimated. Include “EST” (estimated) when applicable.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 5
APPENDIX “A”
BLOCK 29 SPEED ALLOWED
Enter the posted speed limit allowed, if applicable.
BLOCK 30: WEIGHT PERMITTED
When issuing a citation for violations of Chapter 49 of the Vehicle Code,
pertaining to size, weight, and load enter the posted weight permitted in this
block.
BLOCK 31: ACTUAL VEHICLE WEIGHT
When issuing a citation for violations of Chapter 49 of the vehicle Code,
pertaining to size, weight, and load enter the actual loaded weight of the vehicle
in this block.
BLOCK 32: FOLLOWED
Enter the distance followed in miles or tenths of miles.
BLOCK 33: TIMED (MILES)
Enter the distance timed in miles or tenths of miles.
BLOCK 34: TIMED (SECONDS)
Enter the distance timed in seconds.
BLOCK 35: SPEED EQUIP. SERIAL NO.
Enter the serial number of the equipment used to determine the defendant’s
speed. If a speedometer, enter the registration number of the patrol vehicle.
BLOCK 36: SPEED DETECT. EQUIP. TYPE
Enter the type of speed detector equipment used to determine the defendant’s
speed. (Example: Speedometer, stopwatch, VASCAR).
BLOCK 37: STAT. EQUIP. TST.
Enter the type of speedometer-testing station or the speed-timing device testing
station.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 6
APPENDIX “A”
BLOCK 38: DATE EQUIP. TST.
Enter the month, day, and year the patrol vehicle speedometer was tested or the
date the VASCAR or other speed detector equipment was tested by the
speedometer-testing station or speed-timing device testing station.
BLOCK 39: ACC. ARREST/RPT. NO.
Legally, when a citation is issued, it is an arrest. If a citation is issued as a
result of an auto accident, this block will be checked “yes.” In addition, the
District Control Number (DC #) assigned to the Accident Report will be
placed in this block. If a citation is issued and no accident occurred, this block
will be left blank.
BLOCK 40: LOCATION OF OCCURRENCE
Enter the location of the violation. (Example: Westbound on the 1500 block
Market Street; or if at an intersection, southbound on 57
th
Street at Vine Street).
BLOCK 41: DISTRICT OCC.
Enter the number of the police district where the violation occurred.
BLOCK 42: SELECTIVE ENF.
Enter the two-digit code number 01 to 10, if the violation occurred in a
selective enforcement zone.
BLOCK 43: DIR. OF TRAVEL
Circle the appropriate direction of travel (N-S-E-W).
BLOCK 44: WEATHER CONDITIONS
Enter the weather conditions at the time of the violation. (Example:
CLEAR, CLOUDY, RAIN, SNOW, FOG, SLEET.)
BLOCK 45: OFFENSE DATE
Enter the month, day, and year the violation occurred. MUST BE SIX DIGITS.
(Example: 10/26/94.)
BLOCK 46: DAY
Enter the day of the week on which the violation occurred. (Example:
Mon., Tue., Wed., Thu., Fri., Sat., Sun.)
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 7
APPENDIX “A”
BLOCK 47: TIME
Enter the time the violation occurred. Place an “X” in the box for the
appropriate AM/PM designation. DO NOT USE MILITARY TIME.
(Example: 2:30 PM.)
BLOCKS: NOTICE TO APPEAR
48-51
These 4 blocks must be filled in by the issuing officer indicating the month,
day, year and time the defendant is to appear at Traffic Court. The information
for these blocks can be found on the inside cover of the ticket book.
BLOCK 52: DEFENDANT’S SIGNATURE – ACKNOWLEDGES RECEIPT OF
CITATION
The defendant shall be requested to sign his/her name in this space. If they
refuse to do so, enter the word “REFUSED” and issue the violator their copy of
the citation. No further action is necessary.
BLOCK 53: DATE
Enter the month, day, and year the citation was issued to the defendant and
place an “X” in the “Issued” block. In cases where it is not feasible to issue the
citation to the defendant or where evidence of another offense is determined
during an investigation, enter the date the citation is filed (transmitted) with
Traffic Court, and place an “X” in the “Filed” block.
BLOCK 54: STATION ADDRESS
Enter “Franklin Square”
BLOCK 55: DIST. ISS.
Enter the number of the police district/unit, platoon, and squad to which the
officer completing the citation is assigned. (Example: 35
th
District,
2 Platoon, Squad B would be written as 35-2B.)
BLOCK 56: LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY
Place an “X” in the box designated “CITY POLICE”.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 8
APPENDIX “A”
BLOCK 57: 75 PA C.S.A. SEC. 1543 VIOLATION/JUVENILE
A & B
If a juvenile is issued a citation for Section 1543 of the Vehicle Code, “Driving
While Operating Privilege is Suspended or Revoked,” the “Parents Notified”
block (#57B) will be checked “yes” or “no.”
BLOCK 57: REMARKS
Every citation issued must contain a concise narrative of the violation,
including a description of the defendant when he/she cannot provide a driver’s
license to the officer. If the citation is filed on the basis of information
received, include the name of the civilian or other police officer providing the
information. If accompanied by another officer, include their rank and name.
Refer to any other related report by number and the name of the defendant.
NOTE : Police Officers issuing a traffic citation for violations occurring in a
school crossing zone or a street adjacent to a school during the hours of
6am to 6pm, Monday-Friday, will indicate “School Zone Violation”
in this section of the violation. This will allow traffic court and
parking authority personnel to alert judges to the severity of these
infractions.
BLOCK 58: COMM. VEH.
Place an “X” in this block if the defendant was operating a commercial vehicle.
HAZ. MAT.
Place an “X” in this block if the defendant was operating a vehicle that
contained a hazardous material.
BLOCK 59: SCHOOL VEH.
Check this box if the vehicle is specifically designated or placarded for the
transportation of school children whether or not there are student passengers
aboard.
16 PASS. VEH.
Check this box if the vehicle has the capacity for 16 or more passengers
whether or not there are passengers aboard.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 9
APPENDIX “A”
BLOCK 60: MARKED / UNMARKED
Place an “X” in the appropriate box to indicate if the vehicle of the stopping
officer was marked or unmarked.
BLOCK 61: TOTAL DUE
Enter the total fine due in accordance with current Traffic Court fine schedules
(information can be found on the inside cover of the ticket book).
BLOCK 62: SECTION / SUB SEC.
Enter the appropriate section and subsection violated in either the Vehicle Code
or City Ordinance.
BLOCK 63: DATE
The date issued or filed with Traffic Court must be placed in this block for
tracking purposes.
NOTE: The block for the officer’s signature is not numbered. However, it can
be found just below block #48 (Notice to Appear section). Officers
will legibly sign their name and clearly enter their badge number
in this block.
______________________________________________________________________________
BY COMMAND OF THE POLICE COMMISSIONER
______________________________________________________________________________
DIRECTIVE 20 - 10
APPENDIX “A”
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 1
APPENDIX “B
PHILADELPHIA POLICE DEPARTMENT DIRECTIVE 3.2
APPENDIX “B”
SUBJECT: PARKING VIOLATION REPORT (PVR) PREPARATION INSTRUCTIONS
______________________________________________________________________________
1. PROCEDURE
A. The following is a block-by-block description for the proper preparation of the Parking
Violation Report (PVR). When preparing the PVR, the issuing officer will print all
required information in the spaces provided using a ballpoint pen. After completing the
violation, check both copies for legibility and completeness.
BLOCK 1: DATE
Enter the date the violation occurred. Fill in the date, starting with the month, followed by
the day of the month, followed by the year. Use numeric characters. Use only the last two
characters of the year (example: 8/17/00).
BLOCK 2: STATE
Check the box corresponding to the license plate state if the vehicle bears a plate from
Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, New York, Maryland, or Virginia. If the state is not
listed, use the two boxes to the right to enter the two-character state abbreviation.
BLOCK 3: VEHICLE LICENSE NUMBER
Write the license plate number of the vehicle in violation in the boxes provided, one
character per box. Start in the first box on the left. If the plate number does not fill all
spaces, draw a horizontal line through the remaining spaces (example: /A/B/C/1/2/3/4/-/).
BLOCK 4: VEHICLE MAKE
The correct entry under vehicle make is the manufacturer, not the model. Do not record
vehicle models. Check the box corresponding to the vehicle make. If the vehicle make is
not listed use the section to the left to write the appropriate vehicle make abbreviation.
BLOCK 5: VEHICLE COLOR
Write the color of the vehicle. Try to be as descriptive as possible using only basic colors.
For cars with two different colors, separate the colors with a slash (i .e., red/blue).
Issued Date: 04-10-00
Effective Date: 04-10-00
Updated Date:
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 2
APPENDIX “B
BLOCK 6: TIME
If the ticket required timing the vehicle, enter the time it was first observed in the left
section and circle AM or PM. Then write the time the ticket was issued in the right section
and circle AM or PM. If the ticket is issued for a violation which does not require timing
write the time of the violation in the right section and circle AM or PM. The time the ticket
is written is always in the right section of this area of the ticket.
BLOCK 7: LOCATION
Be as accurate as possible when writing the location. Always use actual number addresses
when possible. If there is no address in front of you, but there is one across the street, use
“opposite”. If there is no address available, use the block number as the location of the
vehicle. Be as specific as possible, but be brief. The following are some examples:
1803 Race
opposite 1803 Race
1800 Race, NW corner
BLOCK 8: N/S/E/W
Use this area to indicate side of the street on which the violation is located (i. e., north side,
south side, east side, west side).
BLOCK 9: DISTRICT
Enter the number of the police district where the violation occurred. This is entered as a
two-digit numeric code (example: 5th Police District would be entered as 05, not 5th).
In addition, enter the two-digit code, number 1 to 10, if the parking violation occurred in a
selective enforcement area (example: 35th Police District, Area 5, would be written 35-05).
BLOCK 10: METER NUMBER
Enter the meter number, one character per box.
BLOCK 11: TAZ/RPP
Check off the block marked “TAZ” if the violation occurred in a posted Tow-Away-Zone.
Check off the block marked “RPP” if the vehicle is parked in a posted Residential Parking
Permit block.
BLOCK 12 : BADGE NUMBER
Clearly write your badge number.
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 3
APPENDIX “B
BLOCK 13 : DISTRICT/ PLATOON/ SECTOR
Enter the numeric district and platoon and the alpha character of the squad in which the
issuing officer is assigned (example: 35th Police District, 2 Platoon, and Squad A, would
be entered 35-2-A).
BLOCK 14 : SIGNATURE OF OFFICER
Sign your first initial and last name.
BLOCK 15 : VIOLATIONS
Check the box next to the appropriate violation. Do not circle the violation or the fine
amount. Seven additional violations have been added to the ticket reducing the number of
occasions you will have to write the violation information on the ticket. They are:
PASSENGER LOADING ZONE
BLOCKING DRIVEWAY
HANDICAPPED SPACE
BLOCKING HP RAMP
TAXI STAND
IMPROPER 2-WAY
SNOW ROUTE
A few violations require additional information:
STOPPING PROHIBITED
If it is a rush hour or no stopping during specific hours, check the box next to “BETWEEN
POSTED HOURS”. PARKING PROHIBITED
Check the box next to the appropriate No Parking regulation-- ANYTIME, IN THIS
STREET, BETWEEN POSTED HOURS OTHER
For violations not listed, enter the appropriate section of the Traffic Code found on the
ticket book and the associated fine. Do not write an amount for fine and penalty. Write the
name of the violation on the line for comments.
BLOCK 16: COMMENTS
In this space, include any information which you would have included in the “Notes”
section of the old ticket. Include any notes or circumstances which you feel are important
to document the validity of the ticket. It is no longer necessary, however, to indicate the
*4 time the vehicle was first observed on violations which require timing, since that was
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 4
APPENDIX “B
recorded in Section 6. In addition, police officers issuing a violation report for violations
occurring in a school crossing zone or a street adjacent to a school during the hours of 6am
to 6pm., Monday-Friday, will indicate “School Zone Violation” in this section of the
violation. This will allow traffic court and parking authority personnel to alert judges to
the severity of these infractions.
When the ticket is completed, place it on the vehicle with the word
“VIOLATION” at the top facing out.
______________________________________________________________________________
BY COMMAND OF THE POLICE COMMISSIONER
______________________________________________________________________________
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 5
APPENDIX “B
DIRECTIVE 3.2 - 6
APPENDIX “B
(Reverse Side of PVR)