The new measures aim to clamp down on speeding, with fines of $1,000 imposed on violators.
A new crackdown on street racing will ban a number of actions, including drifting and motorbikes.
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The move in Cleveland, Ohio, targets drivers who authorities say act like “wild westerns.”
These ordinances bring the city into compliance with state law changes introduced October 24.
But after a series of incidents in Cleveland in September, new laws were introduced.
“We need to get the attention of these street outlaws who think this is the Wild West and they can do anything they like on Cleveland's roads and our parking lots,” Councilman Mike Polinske said.
Activities now officially banned include blocking intersections, burnouts, donuts, drifting, stunt driving, and wheeled bikes.
Penalties include a possible prison sentence of six months and fines of up to $1,000.
Under the latest law, cops can also confiscate modified car parts used to make cars faster in illegal drag races.
Officers will also look to target tools used to modify vehicles in ways that may be dangerous and illegal.
On the evening of September 28 and into the morning of September 29, a number of drivers were involved in a series of terrifying and disruptive stunts.
This included blocking traffic on Interstate 90, as well as pointing weapons at people, lighting fireworks, and attempting to start fires.
Cleveland police have already arrested seven people for their alleged roles in the takeovers, with grand juries indicting three people, local NBC-owned affiliate WKYC reported.
Under the new laws, those found guilty of street takeovers — whether directly as participants or indirectly as bystanders — face the same penalties.
“The penalty for the violation has not been changed from current city law and is the same as the state law: a first-degree misdemeanor and a driver’s license suspension for at least 30 days plus the same penalty for anyone who assists them.” Cleveland City Council said in a statement.
“The new legislation would also make 'vehicle components' subject to seizure and confiscation, including but not limited to steering wheels, wheels, tires and mufflers, or any part of a vehicle or component that has been adapted for use in street takeovers, or Stunts.” Drive or race,” the statement went.
Cleveland has also created a street control task force that will work to find solutions to address the problem.
What is reckless driving?
Laws across the country are cracking down on negligent drivers who endanger others on the road. Here are some behaviors that are considered reckless driving:
- Speeding
- Street racing
- Aggressive driving/road rage
- tracking
- Driving under the influence
- Using the phone while driving
- Red lights turn on
- Inattentive driving
- Changing paths incorrectly
- No signal
- Carrying too many passengers
- Weaving in and out of traffic
In announcing the measures, Council Members Polensek added that the city is taking a zero-tolerance approach to future street takeovers.
“You're not going to come from Columbus, Cincinnati, Akron, Barberton, Sandusky and terrorize our residents,” he said, directing the perpetrators.
Since the campaign began, authorities have reported a significant decline in street seizures.
Illegal car meetings in parking lots have continued, Cleveland Police Chief Annie Todd said during a council safety committee meeting.
Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb is now expected to sign the new, tougher measures.
