Mayor Mufi Hannemann yesterday signed into law two bills that prohibit unauthorized tents and shopping carts in city parks. Police will begin enforcing the restrictions April 19.

Tents with walls will be banned unless authorized by camping permits or other park permits. This means that tents will no longer be allowed at Kapi'olani Park unless authorized for special permitted events.

Temporary canopies commonly used in parks to shade picnics and sporting events will still be allowed.

More information about camping regulations, including a list of city parks where camping is allowed with permits, is available at www.honolulu.gov/parks/camping.htm.

Also prohibited are shopping carts in city parks. Hannemann said they create obstructions and unnecessary clutter, and damage grass and landscaping.

City agencies will post information about the rules in parks, and officials and service providers will provide information to park users before enforcement begins. Police will also give warnings of the potential violations, and may begin issuing citations on April 19. Violators are subject to fines of up to $500, imprisonment of up to 30 days or both.