The Most Common Parking Tickets in California

Common Parking Tickets

Parking laws in California are strictly enforced, and violations can result in hefty fines. By understanding the most common parking tickets in California and their associated costs, you can avoid unnecessary expenses and keep your record clean. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of these violations based on the California Vehicle Code.

1. Parking in a Disabled Zone Without a Permit

California Vehicle Code: Section 22507.8
Cost: Up to $1,000

Parking in a disabled parking space without a valid placard or license plate is one of the most heavily fined parking violations in California. These spaces are marked by blue paint and the International Symbol of Access.

Why This Ticket Is Common

Drivers may mistakenly park in these spaces, thinking they’ll only stay briefly, but enforcement officers are vigilant about this violation.

How to Avoid It

If you do not have a valid disabled parking placard, never park in these spots, even temporarily. Always check for blue markings and the designated signage before parking.

2. Blocking a Fire Hydrant

California Vehicle Code: Section 22514
Cost: $80–$150 (varies by city)

Parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant is prohibited to ensure emergency access. Firefighters may need to break your car windows to access the hydrant if your vehicle blocks it.

Why This Happens

Drivers often underestimate the 15-foot rule or overlook hydrants that are not brightly colored.

Avoiding the Fine

Look for fire hydrants before parking and use a rough estimate of three car lengths to stay safely away.

3. Parking in a Fire Lane

California Vehicle Code: Section 22500.1
Cost: $80–$100

Fire lanes are clearly marked with red curbs or signs. Parking here obstructs emergency response vehicles, making it a high-priority violation.

Common Mistakes

Drivers sometimes park in fire lanes, thinking a quick stop won’t lead to a ticket, but enforcement is consistent.

Prevention Tip

Avoid parking near red curbs or where “No Parking – Fire Lane” signage is displayed, regardless of the duration of your stop.

4. Expired Meter Parking

California Vehicle Code: Section 22508
Cost: $35–$75

Urban areas in California rely on parking meters for space management. Letting the meter expire, even for a minute, can result in a citation.

Why It’s a Problem

Busy schedules or distractions often lead to tickets for expired meters, especially in city centers.

How to Stay Safe

Use mobile parking apps to extend meter time remotely. Setting an alarm to remind you of expiration times can also help avoid fines.

5. Parking on Sidewalks or Crosswalks

California Vehicle Code: Section 22500(f)
Cost: $60–$90

Parking on sidewalks, in crosswalks, or in front of curb ramps is strictly prohibited as it obstructs pedestrian pathways and compromises safety.

Why It’s a Frequent Issue

Drivers may misjudge the boundaries of legal parking spaces, especially in congested areas.

Avoiding Infractions

Always ensure your vehicle is parked entirely within the marked parking space and clear of walkways and ramps.

6. Blocking a Driveway

California Vehicle Code: Section 22500(e)
Cost: $60–$100

Blocking a public or private driveway inconveniences residents and can hinder access during emergencies.

Why This Happens

In dense neighborhoods, drivers may park partially over driveways due to limited space or misjudgment.

How to Avoid It

Use landmarks like mailboxes or fences to gauge driveway boundaries. Never park too close to driveways, even if space appears tight.

7. Parking in a No-Parking Zone

California Vehicle Code: Section 22507.6
Cost: $50–$100

No-parking zones are marked with clear signage, often for reasons such as street cleaning or temporary restrictions for events.

Why It’s Common

Temporary signs can be overlooked, especially when drivers are unfamiliar with an area.

Prevention Tips

Pay attention to posted signs and be mindful of temporary parking rules. Check local schedules for street cleaning or event-related restrictions.

8. Double Parking

California Vehicle Code: Section 22500(h)
Cost: $100–$150

Double parking, or parking alongside an already parked car, blocks traffic flow and creates safety hazards, especially in busy areas.

Why It’s Enforced

Double parking disrupts traffic patterns, particularly in urban areas, and can lead to accidents.

Avoiding This Fine

Always park in a designated space, even if it means walking a bit farther. Convenience isn’t worth the fine or potential towing.

9. Parking Against Traffic Flow

California Vehicle Code: Section 22502
Cost: $30–$50

Parking against the direction of traffic is not only illegal but also dangerous. It makes it difficult for your car to merge back into traffic safely.

Why It Happens

Drivers may take shortcuts by parking in the opposite direction, especially in less crowded areas.

Tips to Stay Legal

Park in the same direction as traffic flows. Take a moment to make a U-turn if necessary to align your vehicle properly.

10. Overnight Parking Restrictions

California Vehicle Code: Section 22507.5
Cost: $30–$60 (varies by location)

Many residential areas and certain commercial zones enforce overnight parking restrictions to maintain traffic flow and neighborhood safety.

Why It’s Common

Drivers may be unaware of local ordinances or fail to obtain required permits.

How to Comply

Before parking overnight, check for posted signs or visit city websites to understand local regulations.

What to Do If You Receive a Parking Ticket

If you get a parking ticket, take these steps:

Check the Details – Ensure the ticket lists accurate information.
Pay the Fine – If the ticket is valid, pay promptly to avoid late fees.
Contest the Ticket – If you believe it was issued in error, gather evidence and submit an appeal through the issuing agency’s online portal or by mail.