The lot behind Noco Provisions is costing drivers hundreds. Nobody will claim responsibility.

A parking lot in Forest Hills has become a source of frustration and unexpected expense for local residents. Drivers are being ticketed and towed from the lot behind Noco Provisions, with some facing bills of $461 or more. The controversy has sparked questions about who owns the lot, who authorized the enforcement, and why the signage remains unclear.

A ticket after 10 minutes

The issue first surfaced in April, when neighbors took to social media to complain about surprise towing fees. One post read: "My car was towed last night. $461 plus the ticket violation."

Similar complaints resurfaced in recent weeks, drawing fresh attention to the enforcement.

Michelle, a Forest Hills resident who was ticketed in the lot, said she discovered she was not allowed to park there after noticing a sign near the hostess stand inside Noco Provisions.

"I immediately got up, went to come out to get my car. It was less than 10 minutes," Michelle said.

When she stepped outside, she found a ticket on her vehicle.

Two businesses say they are not responsible

The parking area sits behind Noco Provisions and in front of Azul Agave, a Mexican restaurant that has not yet opened. The specific section behind Noco Provisions had minimal signage, according to reporters. The only visible marker was a single Azul Agave sign. The larger lot, however, included multiple signs throughout, including a "customer parking only" sign at the entrance.

Noco Provisions issued a written statement denying any role in the ticketing and towing. The business said it operates two parking lots. One is in front of their building. The other is across Delray Avenue, next to Kennedy's Flower Shop.

"We want everyone to know that we share in their frustrations and certainly think the parking situation could have been handled differently by whomever is having vehicles towed," the statement read.

Some neighbors online questioned whether Azul Agave was behind the enforcement. The restaurant's owner confirmed she is not authorizing any ticketing or towing. She said she was unaware of the issue until she saw a post about it on social media.

The property owner remains silent

County property records identify the owner of the lot. Reporters attempted to reach the property owner through available contact information. Those attempts were unsuccessful.

The investigation into who is enforcing the parking restrictions continues. Neighbors are left wondering where the money from the fines goes and why enforcement is so strict in an area with limited signage.

Do you have information about who is enforcing parking in the lot behind Noco Provisions? Contact the Grand Rapids Press Wire desk with tips.