Don’t we all despise parking tickets? Nobody enjoys getting a parking ticket, especially when you weren’t planning on parking for long. Sadly, they don’t seem to be going away anytime soon. Car users will continue to be penalized as long as there are more automobiles than available parking spaces.
If you reside in Ottawa, don’t be one of those people who get penalized for flouting traffic rules. But if you do get a parking ticket, this article will guide you on how to pay.
Parking Ticket Payment Options in Ottawa
- Online payment
You can pay for your parking ticket in Ottawa online using a VISA, MasterCard, or American Express card. Note that there is a CA$1.50 service charged is added to each ticket payment. It also includes any charges your financial institution imposes on this payment. On-line, pre-paid, or reloadable cards and gift cards are unacceptable if you use this payment channel.
- By Telephone
You can call the automated payment system to pay your parking ticket payment. This service is available on telephone number 613-738-7719. You can reach this line 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you have any other court-related questions, call 3-1-1 and select option 3 to speak with a City of Ottawa representative.
- By Mail
Alternatively, you can send your payment via mail to the City of Ottawa, P.O. Box 3450, Station D. When mailing a payment, only checks or money orders are accepted. Payable to the City of Ottawa, cheques, and money orders. Ensure to include the ticket number when making a payment. Cash or credit cards are not be accepted for mail-in payments.
You can only make payment using this channel with a money order or cheque. Prices are only credited when they are received and processed, not when they are postmarked.
Payment Review
You can review the status of your parking ticket by filling out an online form to request a review of a parking ticket. This option is only available for parking tickets. Applications are usually assessed within three business days, and you will get a response via email.
You might not get a response as quickly as you want because issues are examined on a case-by-case basis. Tickets might be upheld, annulled, or fines adjusted, so keep your fingers crossed for the best outcome.
Payment Support
You can seek various options if you are unable to pay your parking ticket by the due date. Some of them include:
- Payment Duration Extension
You can ask for an extension of time to pay the fine by filing a Motion for Extension of Time to Pay Fine. If you need more time to pay your fine, fill out the Time To Pay form. Before being approved or refused, your application will be thoroughly scrutinized by a local Justice of the Peace.
This procedure might take up to ten days. You can use the City of Ottawa Traffic guide to check the status of your Extension application.
- Matter reopening
You can submit a Request for Reopening in person at City Hall if you want to reopen a case in which you have been convicted. Before being approved or refused, your application will be thoroughly investigated by a local Justice of Peace.
This procedure might take up to ten business days to complete. You can use the City of Ottawa Traffic guide to check the progress of your Reopening.
- Trial Date Request
You can request a trial date by completing the Notice of Intention to Appear form. Once your trial request is approved, you will receive a trial date via mail.
How to Avoid Parking Tickets in Ottawa
Below are some tips on how to avoid getting a parking ticket in Ottawa.
- Pay the meter
No, turning on your car’s flashers and simply “parking there for a minute” won’t help you get away. This will help to increase the amount of time you spend thinking about your car. So, instead of getting a ticket for something as minute as this, it is advisable to pay the meter.
- Pay electronically
You can obtain a smartphone app that allows you to pay for a parking place on the street using your credit or debit card online. They’ll even let you know when your time is over.
- Carry quarters
Bring quarters with you to always put them in the meter if you need to on your regular commute.
- Use garage parking
This is for extended durations; instead of continuously checking your meter, it’s best to park in a neighboring garage.
- Watch the signs
It’s not an excuse if you don’t perceive the warning flags. When you’re preparing to park, keep an eye out for them. When parking, keep an eye out for fire hydrants, disability zones, and pedestrian crossings.
Conclusion
Getting and paying for a parking ticket can be pretty tiring. So, to avoid getting one, it is advisable to make a conscious effort to adhere to traffic guidelines.
Before parking your car, try to read the directions carefully. Learning parking signs and basic road signs is always beneficial. Using a traffic application can also help you avoid getting a parking ticket as you will always find a parking spot. These mobile applications notify you when it is time to go.
