(A) For the purpose of this section, the following definition shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
DESIGNATED HANDICAPPED ZONE. Any zone reserved for the parking of a passenger vehicle which is owned or used by a disabled person, carrying a registration plate or sticker indicating disability.
(B) The zone shall be designated by a conspicuously posted sign carrying the international handicapped symbol of a wheelchair, or by a clearly visible depiction of that symbol painted on the pavement of the zone. It shall be unlawful for any person to stop, stand, or park any vehicle, except one carrying registration plates which indicate disability, or a sticker, placard, or other form of identification authorized by the Motor Vehicle Department of the state, in a designated handicapped zone on any public parking place; provided, however, that the owner or operator of any motor vehicle not so designated which was being used at the time a parking offense under this section is charged for the physical transportation of a person handicapped within the scope of NMSA §§ 66-3-16 or 66-3-406, may establish the use as a defense to the charge; and provided further that when the stopping, standing, or parking is necessary to avoid conflict with other traffic, in compliance with law, or at the direction of a police officer or traffic-control device, the same shall not be considered an offense hereunder.
(1981 Code, § 13-8) (Ord. 680, passed 3-10-1981) Penalty, see § 70.99