You might also want to note if the plate is expired. Many cities have different regulations for parking a vehicle with expired plates. If the vehicle doesn’t have a license plate, write down that information. In most cities, you cannot park a vehicle on the street at all unless it has a license plate. Lack of a plate might also indicate the vehicle is abandoned.
Taking a photo of the license plate is an easy way to get that information down and transmit it to parking enforcement accurately, even if you aren’t able to submit the photo itself. If the car is parked next to an expired meter, or in a “no parking” zone, try to get some sign of the parking infraction in your photo.
Note which side of the street the car is on. In some cities, this is designated by a direction. You can also note which direction the car is pointing. For example, you might write “Car illegally parked in handicap zone on the south side of Sunshine Avenue, between 7th and 8th street. "
For example, in some cities, commercial vehicles cannot be parked overnight in residential areas. A car parked in a residential neighborhood at 4:00 p. m. wouldn’t necessarily be a violation, while if it was parked at 4:00 a. m. it would be. If the car has been there for several days, it’s likely other people have also reported it. Parking enforcement may prioritize an incident if it was reported by numerous concerned citizens.
For example, some cities may not allow a car to occupy a parking place for more than 3 days. If you know the car has been there for 2 days, you may want to wait a day before making your report. If you can find a specific regulation number, write it down to include with your report. Parking enforcement may respond quicker if you can let them know exactly why the car is parked illegally.
Identifying details about the condition of the car can also help parking enforcement officers find the specific car you’re reporting. Also make note if the car appears to have been vandalized, such as broken windows or missing tires.
Make sure the site you find is official before you submit any information. Most government websites for major cities end in “. gov” or “. us. " If you’re not sure, look for an “about” page.
At a minimum, include a thorough description of the car and its location. You should also include the date and time that you saw the vehicle. If you’ve seen it over a period of time, include that information as well.
Some cities require you to provide a valid email address when submitting an online report.
During regular business hours, reporting illegal parking on social media may actually result in a quicker and more direct response. Keep in mind that you may not get an immediate response using this method, particularly if you’re filing your report at night or on weekends. Parking enforcement social media accounts may only be monitored during regular business hours.
Search for “parking enforcement” with the name of your city to find the number online. If your city has an information line, you also may be able to connect with parking enforcement through that number. If your city doesn’t have a dedicated parking enforcement line, call the police non-emergency number. Don’t call 911 unless there are lives immediately at risk.
Talking to an enforcement officer typically is more efficient. You can provide them your information directly, and if they have any additional questions they can ask you right then. You may also be able to get some idea of when the car will be moved. This might be particularly important if the car is impacting you personally, such as if it’s blocking your driveway or in front of your business.
Provide as many specific details as possible, speaking in a clear, concise voice. Some cities may allow you to report anonymously. Include your name and phone number or email address if you want them to follow up with you on your report.
Even if you didn’t speak to a live representative the first time, try to get someone on the line if you’re calling to follow up. Provide them with your case number, if your report was assigned one. If you aren’t getting any results from the parking enforcement number, you might want to try the police non-emergency line.
