In APCO, Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials 10-codes, 10-92 means "Improperly Parked Vehicle", "Parking Violation", or "Traffic Issue". It is used by officers, dispatchers, or traffic personnel to report vehicles that are parked in violation of local regulations, blocking traffic, or creating safety hazards, ensuring timely enforcement and traffic management.
Here’s how it might be used in a real-world scenario:
- Officer: "Dispatch, unit 9, 10-92 at 1200 Main Street, vehicle blocking fire lane."
- Dispatch: "10-4, unit 9 noted, citation issued and towing service en route."
In this exchange, the officer communicates that a vehicle is improperly parked. Using 10-92 ensures that dispatch coordinates appropriate action, such as citation, towing, or traffic rerouting, maintaining safety and compliance with parking regulations.
Operational Purpose
10-92 is essential for maintaining traffic flow, public safety, and emergency access. Prompt reporting of improperly parked vehicles allows officers to prevent accidents, ensure clear passage for emergency vehicles, and uphold local traffic laws.
This code is commonly used in situations such as:
- Vehicles blocking fire lanes, crosswalks, or driveways
- Double-parked vehicles creating congestion or hazards
- Parking in restricted zones, handicapped areas without proper permits, or no-parking areas
- Vehicles abandoned in a location causing obstruction or safety concerns
Officer Safety And Coordination
Declaring 10-92 ensures dispatch and other units are aware of the location and nature of the parking violation. Units may report location with 10-20, acknowledge instructions with 10-4, or request towing assistance using 10-74. Accurate communication enhances efficiency, reduces confusion, and maintains safety on the scene.
Variations And Agency Practices
Some agencies differentiate between minor parking infractions, hazardous violations, and abandoned vehicles, prioritizing response accordingly. Local protocols may define citation issuance, towing procedures, and reporting requirements for 10-92 incidents.
Plain-Language Alternatives
Agencies emphasizing plain-language communication may replace 10-92 with phrases such as:
- "Vehicle parked improperly, citation or tow required."
- "Traffic hazard reported due to parking violation."
- "Obstructing vehicle reported at location, units respond."
Related 10-Codes
Codes commonly associated with 10-92 include 10-4 (acknowledgment), 10-20 (location), 10-23 (arrived on scene/standby), 10-74 (assist/backup requested), and 10-86 (disabled/abandoned vehicle). Together, these codes ensure coordinated, safe, and effective traffic enforcement.