How much is a parking ticket in the city of Milwaukee?

There isn’t a single price for a parking ticket in Milwaukee; the amount depends on the specific violation. As a rule of thumb, common tickets tend to run in the roughly $20–$50 range, while serious violations can exceed $100, and disabled-parking violations typically cost $200 or more. Late fees and collection costs can increase the total if a citation isn’t paid on time. Below is a detailed look at how these costs break down and how to find the exact amount for your case.

What determines the cost of a parking ticket in Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s parking fines are set by the city’s Parking Services and vary by violation type, location, and the enforcement program in effect (for example, winter parking rules or street sweeping). The city also applies late fees after a due date, and unpaid balances can lead to extra enforcement costs such as booting and towing. Because Milwaukee revises its citation schedule from time to time, you should always verify the current fine on the city’s official channels or printed citation.

Typical Milwaukee parking ticket amounts (2025)

The following examples reflect common base fine ranges you are likely to see in Milwaukee. Exact amounts can change, and specific circumstances (signage, zones, or safety-related restrictions) can influence what you owe. Use these figures as a general guide and confirm your amount with the city.

• Expired meter or overtime in a timed zone: commonly in the low $20s (about $20–$25).
• Overnight parking without a valid permit (2–6 a.m., where required): often in the low-to-mid $20s.
• Street cleaning/posted temporary no-parking: generally in the $30–$50 range.
• Winter parking or snow emergency restrictions: often around $40–$50, sometimes higher during declared emergencies.
• No-stopping/standing in bus stops, loading zones, or tow-away zones: frequently $40–$60, with towing possible.
• Blocking a driveway, alley, crosswalk, or sidewalk: commonly $30–$50.
• Parking too close to a fire hydrant or in a fire lane: typically $50 or more.
• Disabled/handicapped parking violations: typically $200+ (Wisconsin law sets high penalties).
• Expired or improper registration/plates when parked on-street: often around $50 (plus any state registration issues).

These figures capture what most drivers encounter, but specific corridors and special restrictions can carry different fine levels. Always check the posted sign, the printed ticket, or the city’s citation lookup to confirm your exact total.

Late fees, booting, and towing: what can increase your total

Beyond the base fine, additional charges may apply if you pay late or accrue multiple unpaid tickets. Understanding these can help you avoid unnecessary costs.

• Late penalties: If you miss the due date on your ticket, Milwaukee adds late fees that can raise the amount owed; multiple late thresholds can add more over time.
• Booting (immobilization): Accumulating unpaid citations can trigger a wheel boot; you’ll owe the boot removal fee in addition to all outstanding fines and late charges.
• Towing and storage: Certain violations or boot-eligible vehicles can be towed; expect a tow charge plus daily storage until you retrieve the vehicle.
• Collections and holds: Unpaid balances can be sent to collections or result in registration renewal holds until fines are cleared.

Because these add-ons escalate quickly, paying or contesting a ticket by the stated deadline is the best way to keep costs down.

How to find the exact amount for your ticket

To verify the precise fine and any late fees tied to your specific citation, use Milwaukee’s official resources. You’ll need details from your ticket, such as the citation number or plate.

1. Use the City of Milwaukee Parking Services online citation lookup/payment portal to see your live balance, due date, and any late penalties.
2. Check the “Parking Citation Schedule” posted by Milwaukee Parking Services for current base fine amounts by violation type.
3. Contact Milwaukee Parking Services by phone if you have questions about the charge or how to contest it; have your plate and citation number ready.
4. If you believe the ticket was issued in error, file an appeal through the city’s prescribed process before the listed deadline.

These steps ensure you’re seeing the most current, case-specific amount and provide options if you plan to dispute the citation.

Tips to avoid parking tickets in Milwaukee

A few habits can help you steer clear of citations, especially during seasonal rule changes and special events.

• Read curb signs every time you park, including temporary postings for street work or events.
• Observe winter parking and snow emergency rules, which can differ from normal regulations.
• Use payment apps or set phone reminders to avoid meter or timed-zone overages.
• If you rely on overnight on-street parking, obtain and maintain the required permit and confirm block-specific restrictions.
• Leave safe distances from hydrants, intersections, crosswalks, and bus stops.

Taking these precautions can reduce the chance of a ticket and help you avoid higher-cost violations tied to safety and emergency access.

Summary

Milwaukee parking ticket costs vary by violation, with common fines typically in the $20–$50 range and serious offenses higher—disabled-parking violations are usually $200 or more. Late fees, booting, and towing can increase what you owe if you don’t act by the due date. For the exact amount on your specific ticket, use Milwaukee Parking Services’ citation lookup or contact the department directly, and consider an appeal if you think the ticket was issued in error.

How much is parking in Milwaukee?

Milwaukee Parking Rates

Parking Type	SpotHero Average Price Offered
Commuter Parking	$9 – $19
Weekend Parking	$11 – $25
Event Parking	$12 – $30
Overnight Parking	$15 – $26

How many tickets before a car is towed?

five
Your vehicle will become eligible for towing if the vehicle has five or more delinquent tickets. This may include parking tickets anywhere in California. If your vehicle is in danger of being towed, you should pay your parking tickets immediately.

What happens if I don’t pay a Milwaukee parking ticket?

Normal parking tickets will not get you quickly sent to jail, but if left unpaid, the rate goes up significantly, and, as time goes on, your registration may be suspended, your vehicle may be booted or impounded, and you may even have your license suspended.

How much are parking tickets in the city of Milwaukee?

Types and Costs of Parking Citations

Code	Violation	Original Fee
620	Prohibited Parking – Non Electric Or Not Charging	$30
621	Double Parking	$40
623	Parked Wrong Direction	$40
630	Parked Less Than 2 Ft From Vehicle	$40