How to Avoid Parking Tickets and Expensive Fines

by | Jan 3, 2025 | Traffic School

Parking tickets are one of the most common and frustrating expenses for drivers in urban areas. Not only can they disrupt your day, but they can also put a significant dent in your wallet if you’re not careful. In some cities, a single parking violation can cost more than $100, and repeated offenses can lead to even higher fines or towing. However, with some knowledge and proactive strategies, you can minimize your chances of getting a parking ticket.

The Cost of Parking Tickets

Before diving into tips, it’s essential to understand just how costly parking violations can be. The average parking ticket varies depending on the city and the severity of the violation. For example:

  • New York City: The average parking ticket costs between $45 and $115, with higher fines for bus lane or traffic obstruction violations.
  • San Francisco: Parking fines range from $73 to $110, making it one of the most expensive places to park illegally.
  • Chicago: Parking fines range from $50 to $200, with steep penalties for tow zones or fire hydrant violations.
  • Los Angeles: The average parking ticket costs around $63, with some violations reaching $100.
  • Washington, D.C.: Fines range from $25 to $300, with no-standing zones or fire hydrant violations being among the most expensive.

According to a study by INRIX, American drivers spend approximately $5 billion on parking tickets annually. Unpaid parking fines can lead to outstanding legal debt. For instance, almost 25% of parking tickets issued in Austin, TX, over two years were unpaid.

Top U.S. Cities with the Highest Parking Fines

Some cities are notorious for their steep parking fines. If you live in or visit these cities, it’s especially important to be vigilant about where and how you park:

  • New York City: Fines for parking violations can go up to $200, especially for no-parking zones or traffic obstructions.
  • Houston: Parking fines can reach $75, particularly for restricted zones or street cleaning violations.
  • Orlando: Parking fines range from $20 to $45 but increase significantly near tourist attractions.
  • Atlanta: Fines range from $25 to $75, with stricter enforcement in downtown areas during peak hours.
  • Memphis: Parking fines range from $21 to $50, with higher penalties near Beale Street and other popular spots.
  • Chicago: Notoriously high fines, especially for snow route violations, with potential towing in winter months.
  • Washington, D.C.: Parking fines can reach up to $300 for offenses like blocking fire hydrants.

Tips for Avoiding Parking Tickets

  • Read the Signs Carefully: Always check for street cleaning schedules, no-parking zones, and time-limited parking signs.
  • Use Parking Apps: Apps like ParkMobile and SpotHero help find and pay for parking while offering reminders when your time is about to expire.
  • Be Mindful of Time Limits: Set an alarm on your phone to avoid overstaying in a timed parking zone.
  • Avoid Restricted Zones: Never park in bus stops, loading zones, or near fire hydrants, as these are common ticketing areas.
  • Watch for Temporary No-Parking Signs: Be vigilant about temporary restrictions due to street cleaning or construction.
  • Keep Your Meter Paid: Use mobile apps to extend your meter time remotely when necessary.
  • Park in Designated Lots or Garages: Opt for paid parking lots to avoid the risk of tickets in heavily enforced areas.
  • Pay Attention to Curb Colors: Red, yellow, and blue curbs often indicate parking restrictions.
  • Check Your Car’s Position: Ensure your vehicle is properly aligned within the lines and not obstructing driveways or pedestrian crossings.

What to Do If You Get a Parking Ticket

  • Pay the Fine Promptly: Many cities offer reduced fines for early payment, typically within the first 10 to 15 days.
  • Contest the Ticket: If you believe the ticket was issued in error, gather evidence (e.g., photos or receipts) and follow the city’s procedure for disputes.
  • Attend a Hearing: For unresolved disputes, you may need to attend a hearing with supporting documentation.
  • Don’t Ignore the Ticket: Ignoring tickets can lead to increased fines or legal action, including a warrant for your arrest in extreme cases.

Learn More with DriveSafe Online

Parking tickets are an unfortunate reality of urban driving, but with the right knowledge and strategies, you can reduce your risk of receiving one. Learn about parking and other safe driving techniques by enrolling in a DriveSafe Online Defensive Driving Course. Join over 500,000 drivers who have improved their driving skills and saved money. Select I’M READY to lock in your low price and start whenever your schedule allows.