Philadelphia offers several convenient options for paying and rectifying parking tickets, whether you are a resident or a visitor. The city’s Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA) operates both physical payment centers and multiple online, mail, and phone payment channels. Here’s a comprehensive guide for paying parking tickets, including key locations, addresses, hours, directions, required documents, and advice for those unfamiliar with local procedures.
How to Pay Parking Tickets in Philadelphia
The city provides four main ways to pay your parking tickets:
- In person (at the Philadelphia Parking Authority’s main office)
- Online
- By mail
- By phone
Each option is designed to make the process quick, secure, and straightforward, whether you’re a visitor or a regular commuter.
Primary In-Person Payment Location
The main site for in-person payments and dispute resolution is the:
Parking Violations Branch
913 Filbert Street
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Hours:
Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM–1:00 PM
Closed Sundays
Directions:
From Center City: The office is located one block north of Market Street, near the Reading Terminal Market and Jefferson Station. 913 Filbert Street faces a pedestrian corridor off 10th Street, easily accessible via public transit (Broad Street Line to City Hall, Market–Frankford Line to 11th or 13th Street).
How to Pay In Person
What to Bring
- The original parking ticket OR your license plate number
- Government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport)
- Proof of vehicle ownership (registration if disputing charges)
- Payment (cash, check, credit/debit card — major cards accepted)
- For disputed/contested tickets, any supporting documents (photos, tow receipts)
Steps
- Take a numbered ticket from the front desk kiosk.
- Wait to be called to a service window.
- Present your documents and make payment.
- If disputing, request a hearing at the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication within the building.
Online Payment
Paying online is fast and available 24/7. Use the official payment portal:
Have your ticket number and license plate ready. Most major credit/debit cards are accepted.
Mail Payment
Send a check or money order made out to “City of Philadelphia” (never send cash). Include the ticket number on your payment.
Mailing address:
Parking Violations Branch
P.O. Box 41818
Philadelphia, PA 19101-1818
Postmark your payment before the due date to avoid late fees. For your peace of mind, use certified or trackable mail if sending important documentation.
Phone Payment
Payments can be made by phone, 24/7, using Visa, MasterCard, or American Express.
Phone number:
1-888-591-3636
Press “1” after the message, and have your ticket/notice number and card ready.
Payment Plans
Philadelphia offers monthly payment plans for overdue tickets and camera violations (red light/speed). You may enroll online, over the phone, or in person at 913 Filbert Street.
Disputing a Parking Ticket
You can request a hearing at the Bureau of Administrative Adjudication (housed at 913 Filbert Street) if you believe a ticket was issued in error. Bring:
- Ticket and license plate number
- Supporting evidence (photos, receipts, witness statements)
- Any correspondence from the PPA or towing company
Hearings allow you to present your case; you are entitled to representation and to appeal decisions against you.
Additional Payment Sites and Kiosks
While 913 Filbert Street is the core location, occasional pop-up payment centers may operate during special events or enforcement campaigns. The city also accepts payment at certain PPA district offices and through community programs—but always check city websites for updated addresses and hours.
Acceptable Payment Methods
- Major credit/debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex)
- Cash (in person only)
- Check or money order (by mail)
- Coins at some kiosks (for parking, not ticket resolution)
- MeterUP mobile app for individual parking sessions, not ticket payment
Tips for Visitors to Philadelphia
- Keep documentation: If you receive a ticket, photograph your parked vehicle, signs, and meter/kiosk for records.
- Act quickly: Late fees accumulate after the payment window closes.
- Request receipts: Always get proof of payment, either paper or email.
- Dispute rights: You have the right to contest any ticket if you believe it was issued unjustly.
- Language access: The PPA office at Filbert Street offers multilingual support and translated forms.
Estimated Fees and Penalties
Most parking tickets are $25–$50 for meter violations and up to $300 for handicapped parking or fire hydrant infractions. Late penalties can add $20–$50 per notice, and unpaid balances may result in booting or towing. Payment plans help travelers avoid additional stress.
Directions and Parking at 913 Filbert Street
- Driving: Use Market Street or Vine Street Expressway, turn south on 10th, and park in nearby lots or garages.
- Public Transit: SEPTA Regional Rail, Market–Frankford Line, Broad Street Line — Jefferson Station and City Hall stops.
- On Foot: From Market East, walk to 10th and Filbert; from Reading Terminal Market, go north one block.
Useful Contacts
- PPA Violations Branch (Filbert Street): 1-888-591-3636
- PPA Main Website: philapark.org
- Online Payment Portal: PPA Parking Portal
- Mail Info: P.O. Box 41818, Philadelphia, PA 19101-1818
For quicker service, have all ticket numbers, vehicle details, and your ID ready.
Philadelphia offers multiple straightforward venues and methods for parking ticket payment and dispute—ensuring fairness and convenience for both locals and visitors. Whether using the main downtown payment center or secure online portals, keeping your information handy and responding promptly will help resolve tickets before additional penalties arise. Make use of payment plans where necessary, dispute tickets if warranted, and always maintain your own records. For more information, consult the Philadelphia Parking Authority’s official site or visit the Filbert Street branch in Center City for efficient resolution.
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