Atlanta wants to take the surprises out of parking

Zoom in: Sponsored by Atlanta City Council member Jason Dozier, the consumer-protection ordinance creates a "parking bill of rights" aimed at eliminating surprises for people who think they're following the rules but end up feeling sucker-punched by fines and penalties.

How it works: The new rules also require park-for-hire lots and garages to clearly disclose the operator's contact information and whether or not there's a grace period. Drivers would also have at least 30 days to dispute a penalty.

• Parking lot and garage operators generally would have 180 days to comply with the ordinance and could face a $1,000 fine for violations.

Yes, but: The ordinance doesn't address booting, which is separately regulated under city ordinances and state law.

State of play: Dozier's legislation, which was introduced earlier this summer and revised in committee, received unanimous support from Council's Transportation Committee.

What's next: The full Council could vote on the proposal on Tuesday.