How to Contest a Parking Ticket in San Francisco
Parking tickets in San Francisco are reviewed by the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency. A protest must be filed within 21 days of the date the ticket was issued, or of the first courtesy notice, and the SFMTA does not consider protests after that. Do not pay the citation if you want to protest it.
You can protest online, where you can upload photos, receipts and other evidence, or mail a protest form to the SFMTA Customer Service Center at 11 South Van Ness Avenue. If your car was stolen when the ticket was issued, include the complete police report, not just the report number. Clear, dated photos of signs and curb markings help most.
Once your protest is received, the citation is placed on hold, and reviews can take up to 90 days. If it is denied, you have 25 calendar days to request an administrative hearing, which requires a deposit equal to the fine unless you qualify for a low-income or other waiver. A final appeal to Superior Court costs $25 and must be filed within 30 days.
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San Francisco: common questions
How long do I have to contest a parking ticket in San Francisco?
21 days from the date the ticket was issued or the date of the first courtesy notice. The SFMTA says protests will not be considered after that period, so submit yours promptly and keep your confirmation or proof of mailing.
How long does an SFMTA citation review take?
Reviews may take up to 90 days. Your citation is placed on hold while the protest is pending, and you will get a decision letter by mail or email. No further action is needed until then.
Do I have to pay before a hearing in San Francisco?
For the first written protest, no. To request the administrative hearing that follows a denial, state law requires a deposit equal to the fine, which is refunded if the citation is dismissed. Customers with income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level can ask for a waiver.
Can I take an SFMTA decision to court?
Yes. After the administrative hearing, you can appeal to the San Francisco Superior Court within 30 days of the decision date for a new hearing. There is a $25 filing fee per citation, paid in person at 850 Bryant Street or by mail.
Compare nearby cities
| City | Agency | Deadline | Online |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco | San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency | 21 days | Yes |
| Los Angeles | City of Los Angeles Parking Violations Bureau | 21 days | Yes |
| San Diego | City of San Diego Parking Administration | 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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