Parking Tickets & Municipal Bylaw Appeals

Parking tickets and bylaw infractions are common administrative offences in Ontario. Knowing how to dispute them can save you money and protect your interests.

Administrative Penalty System (APS)

Many municipalities in Ontario use the Administrative Penalty System (APS) for parking tickets and bylaw infractions. This system is designed to be more efficient than traditional court proceedings.

How to Dispute Your Ticket

• Request a Review: You must request a review of your ticket within a certain period (e.g., 15 days). This can often be done online through the municipality's website.
• Provide Evidence: You should provide any documents (photos, signage, receipts) that support your position.
• Review Officer Hearing: A review officer will listen to your arguments and make a decision. This decision is final and cannot be appealed to the court.

Right to a Hearing

If you are not satisfied with the review officer's decision, you may have the right to a hearing before a Hearing Officer. This is a more formal proceeding where both sides present evidence and arguments.

Important Deadlines

You must follow all deadlines for requesting a review or a hearing. If you miss a deadline, you will lose your right to dispute the ticket.