Fire Hydrant Parking Violation: How to Fight It
You received a ticket for parking too close to a fire hydrant. The strongest defenses are . Use our free tool below to check if your specific ticket is beatable.
Last updated: March 2026
When You Might Beat This Ticket
- ✓The hydrant was not visible from your parking position (obscured by snow, vehicle, or construction)
- ✓The hydrant was out of service or decommissioned
- ✓You were further than the required distance (typically 15 feet)
- ✓The painted curb markings were faded or missing
Fire Hydrant Fines by City
| City | Code | Fine | Appeal Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City, NY | 51 | $115 | 30 days |
| Los Angeles, CA | 80.73(a) | $100 | 21 days |
| Chicago, IL | 9-64-100 | $150 | 21 days |
| San Francisco, CA | 7.2.57 | $110 | 21 days |
| Philadelphia, PA | 12-1112 | $76 | 15 days |
Best Defenses
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 Fire Hydrant Ticket — Free
Free Assessment
Is your ticket beatable?
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Fire Hydrant Ticket FAQ
Can I fight a fire hydrant parking ticket?
Yes. Fire Hydrant tickets are among the most commonly contested violations. The best defenses include incorrect vehicle description on ticket and medical emergency. Success depends on the evidence you can provide.
How much is a fire hydrant ticket?
Fines vary by city: New York City ($115), Los Angeles ($100), Chicago ($150), San Francisco ($110), Philadelphia ($76).
What evidence do I need to fight a fire hydrant ticket?
The most important evidence is Copy of vehicle registration showing correct plate and description and Photograph of the vehicle's actual license plate. Timestamps on photos are critical.
How long do I have to appeal a fire hydrant 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.