Those who illegally park in Austin’s bike-only lanes can now expect to be ticketed or towed under a new city Transportation Department initiative.

Parking enforcement officers are to levy fines of up to $300 to anyone who parks illegally in these bike-only lanes, according to a statement from the Transportation Department on Tuesday.

The vehicles may also be towed, according to city officials. The cost to get a car out of impound the same day it was towed runs around $193.

"Parking in a bike-only lane compels cyclists to enter general travel lanes, which greatly increases the chances for a deadly or serious crash," Robert Spillar, director for the Transportation Department, said in the statement. "Keeping our bike lanes clear makes our streets safer for both cyclists and motorists alike."

The initiative also allows individuals to report vehicles blocking bike lines to the city’s 311 mobile app, or by calling 311 directly. Officers will be sent out to areas where violations are reported.

Residents can learn more about Austin’s bicycle projects, laws and bikeways at AustinTexas.Gov/Bicycle.