Expired or Broken Parking Meter: How to Fight It
You received a ticket because the parking meter showed expired time, or you believe the meter was malfunctioning. The strongest defenses are broken or malfunctioning meter and conflicting signage. Use our free tool below to check if your specific ticket is beatable.
Last updated: March 2026
When You Might Beat This Ticket
- ✓The meter was broken and would not accept payment
- ✓You paid but the meter did not register your payment
- ✓The meter displayed an error message
- ✓You returned to your car within the paid time but found a ticket
Expired Meter Fines by City
| City | Code | Fine | Appeal Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City, NY | 37 | $65 | 30 days |
| Los Angeles, CA | 80.58(b) | $63 | 21 days |
| Chicago, IL | 9-64-170 | $65 | 21 days |
| San Francisco, CA | 7.2.56 | $82 | 21 days |
| Philadelphia, PA | 12-1127 | $51 | 15 days |
Best Defenses
Broken or Malfunctioning Meter
high successThe parking meter was visibly broken, displayed an error, accepted payment but failed to register it, or was not functioning at the time the vehicle was parked.
Evidence needed:
- Photograph of the meter display showing the error or malfunction
- Receipt or bank statement showing payment attempt if applicable
- Timestamp from the photograph
Conflicting Signage
high successTwo or more signs on the block face or pole provided contradictory parking rules, making it impossible to determine the lawful parking restriction.
Evidence needed:
- Photograph clearly showing both conflicting signs in the same frame
- Photograph showing the distance between the signs
Incorrect Vehicle Description on Ticket
medium successThe ticket contains a material error in the vehicle description — wrong license plate number, incorrect state, wrong vehicle make, model, or color.
Evidence needed:
- Copy of vehicle registration showing correct plate and description
- Photograph of the vehicle's actual license plate
Medical Emergency
medium successThe vehicle was parked in violation because of an unforeseen medical emergency affecting the driver or a passenger that required immediate attention.
Evidence needed:
- Hospital or emergency room discharge paperwork showing date and time
- Doctor's note or urgent care visit documentation
- Any emergency services record
Check Your Expired Meter Ticket — Free
Free Assessment
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Expired Meter Ticket FAQ
Can I fight a expired meter parking ticket?
Yes. Expired Meter tickets are among the most commonly contested violations. The best defenses include broken or malfunctioning meter and conflicting signage. Success depends on the evidence you can provide.
How much is a expired meter ticket?
Fines vary by city: New York City ($65), Los Angeles ($63), Chicago ($65), San Francisco ($82), Philadelphia ($51).
What evidence do I need to fight a expired meter ticket?
The most important evidence is Photograph of the meter display showing the error or malfunction and Receipt or bank statement showing payment attempt if applicable. Timestamps on photos are critical.
How long do I have to appeal a expired meter ticket?
Appeal deadlines vary by city: New York City (30 days), Los Angeles (21 days), Chicago (21 days), San Francisco (21 days), Philadelphia (15 days). Missing your deadline means losing the right to contest.
City-Specific Guides
ParkingFight is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. Information is for informational purposes only. Fine amounts and appeal rules are based on publicly available municipal data and may change.