FAQ

What has changed with the meters? 

In an effort to update the public parking system, Chicago Parking Meters has installed electronic Pay Boxes that now replace almost all of the old-style meters. The Pay Boxes allow payment by credit or debit cards, accepting Visa, Master Card, American Express and Discover. However, quarters will still be accepted.

Secondly, the rules of the meters have changed so we urge you to please check the meter for specific hours of operation. For further clarification, refer to pages 13-19 of the December 4, 2008 Journal of Proceedings of the City Council of the City of Chicago, Illinois: http://www.chicityclerk.com/journalofproceedings00.php

Thirdly, rates have changed city wide. Visit our Cost & Hours page for more specific rate information and, as always, double check your meter for specifics. 

What are Pay Boxes and why are you replacing the old-style meters with them?

A Pay Box is a electronic meter that allows you to pay for parking at a central location and display your receipt on your vehicle's dashboard (For motorcycles / scooters, write license plate number on receipt and apply to headlamp using the provided adhesive).

By removing the old-style parking meters, we eliminated the old "one car per parking space" rule. This means you can use any legally available curb space, which translates into more parking options. Remember, "No Parking" zones, Fire Hydrants, Crosswalks, Bus Stops and all other restricted parking regulations will still be enforced, so please pay attention to the signs.

Also, the new Pay Box system will allow you to use credit or debit cards, accepting Visa, Master Card, American Express and Discover cards. Quarters will still be accepted.

How does this benefit me? 

First, payment is easy - use a credit card (quarters or dollar coins).

Next, motorists can "pre-pay" for time when there are no posted rush hour restrictions. Generally, parking is free at most meters from 9 p.m. to 8 a.m. (Except in the Loop and City Parking Lots.  Please check each individual Pay Box for hours of operation.) For instance, if you find yourself in a meeting from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., park free for one hour and pre-pay for the hours from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.; there is no need to leave your meeting and return to the Pay Box as your receipt will be valid until 10 a.m. The new Pay Boxes provide patrons with a receipt which can be used for business expenses, contesting tickets and tax purposes – something that was impossible with old single space meters.

In addition, one Pay Box replaces many single space meters, creating more parking spots and sidewalk space per block. With this new system we ask parkers to be mindful when parking as to make the most of the allotted metered parking spaces. Pay Boxes also promote parking turnover, resulting in more availability in front of favorite destinations. 

Finally, the Pay Boxes communicate immediately to a central server which informs mechanics when it is broken or in need of collection. Consequently, collection and maintenance crews need to visit meters less often, reducing their carbon footprint and congestion.

Is this happening everywhere there are meters?

Yes. A majority of parking spots across Chicago, from the North Side to the South Side to the Loop and everywhere in between, now have Pay Boxes. They are being installed at an unprecedented rate and the entire project is now complete.

I got a parking ticket. What do I do now?

If it is a valid violation, please pay it by following the directions on the ticket or envelop.  If you believe it was issued in error, you may contest the ticket. Instructions for challenging a ticket can be found on the ticket, or click here to visit the Chicago Department of Revenue Web site for more information.

What do I do if the meter is broken? Do I still have to pay?

1. Please call 1.877.242.7901 and report it as inoperable or malfunctioning within 24 hours of parking your vehicle in the meter zone or space.   

2. You don't have to pay if you park at a broken meter, as long as you didn’t cause the meter to break. However, if you park at a broken meter, you may only park for the maximum period of stay, or duration, allowed by that meter. For example, if the time limit for the meter is two hours, you cannot stay in the space for more than two hours; exceeding the time limit, even if the meter is broken, may result in a parking ticket.

3. Please remember that by reporting a broken or malfunctioning meter, you are helping us keep the system in tip-top shape, helping your fellow motorists and protecting yourself should you inadvertently receive a parking ticket.

What if it charges my credit card twice or I need a refund for some reason?

In case you find your credit card was charged the wrong amount or feel you are entitled to a refund for any reason please follow the instructions in the “Refund Request” section of Chicagometers.com, or call the Helpdesk (877.242.7901).

Do the new meters accept dollar bills?

No, the new meters only accept credit and debit cards, as well as quarters and dollar coins.

We have to choose our tools based on the unpredictable and harsh Chicago weather, which does not work favorably with dollar bill acceptors.

Our hope, with the Pay Boxes, is to supply more options for payment - in addition to the various other benefits.

Can I buy a monthly parking pass?   

Currently, monthly passes may be purchased for a select number of lots around the City. Please see the “Monthly Parking” section of Chicagometers.com for more information.

Do drivers with disabilities get special parking privileges at Pay Boxes and meters?

Yes. Vehicles displaying a valid "Person with Disability" license plate or placard may park at a Pay Box or single space meter for free as long as the applicant is either the driver or a passenger in the vehicle. 

If you notice someone taking advantage of this program and want to report abuse to the Secretary of State of Illinois, click here.