How to Contest a Parking Ticket in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, parking citations are handled by the City's Parking Violations Bureau, part of the Department of Transportation. Contesting follows the three-step process in the California Vehicle Code, starting with an initial review. Your request must be received within 21 calendar days of the date the citation was issued, or within 14 calendar days of the first delinquent notice. No payment is needed for the initial review.
You can request an initial review online, by phone, in person, or by mailing the review form or a letter to the Parking Violations Bureau, P.O. Box 30420, Los Angeles, CA 90030. Include the citation number and a clear explanation. Useful evidence includes photos of signs, curb paint and meters, parking app or meter receipts, and permits. Do not pay first, because paying without requesting a review closes the citation.
If the initial review upholds the citation, you have 21 calendar days from the mailing of that decision to request an administrative hearing, held by written declaration, teleconference or in person. You must pay the fine before the hearing unless you qualify for a low-income pre-payment waiver, and the money is refunded if you win. After the hearing, you can appeal to the Superior Court within 30 days.
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Los Angeles: common questions
How long do I have to contest a parking ticket in Los Angeles?
Your request for an initial review must be received within 21 calendar days of the date the citation was issued, or within 14 calendar days of the date on the first delinquent notice. After that, you lose the right to contest the citation.
Do I have to pay my Los Angeles ticket before contesting it?
Not for the initial review, which is free. For the administrative hearing that follows, state law requires paying the fine first, unless you meet the federal low-income guidelines and are approved for a pre-payment waiver. If you win the hearing, the money is refunded.
Where do I mail a Los Angeles parking citation contest?
Send a letter or the initial review form to the Parking Violations Bureau, P.O. Box 30420, Los Angeles, CA 90030. Include the citation number, your name and mailing address, and copies of all your evidence. Keep originals and proof of the date you mailed it.
What if the hearing officer rules against me?
You can appeal the hearing officer's decision to the Los Angeles County Superior Court within 30 calendar days of the date the decision was mailed. The court charges a filing fee per citation, refunded if the court rules in your favor, and you can ask the court for a fee waiver.
Compare nearby cities
| City | Agency | Deadline | Online |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | City of Los Angeles Parking Violations Bureau | 21 days | Yes |
| San Diego | City of San Diego Parking Administration | 21 days | Yes |
| San Francisco | San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency | 21 days | Yes |
| San Jose | City of San Jose Office of Parking Violations | 21 days | Yes |
| Austin | Austin Municipal Court | See ticket | Yes |
| Boston | City of Boston Office of the Parking Clerk | 21 days | Yes |
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