How much is a Portland, Maine parking ticket?

In Portland, Maine, the most common parking ticket—such as an expired meter or overstaying a posted time limit—typically costs about $30 to $35 if paid on time. Fines for more serious violations range higher, including approximately $100 for parking too close to a fire hydrant and $200 for illegally using an accessible (handicapped) space. During winter parking bans, vehicles can be ticketed and towed, adding significant towing and storage fees. While amounts vary by violation and can change over time, the figures below reflect the current ranges commonly issued in Portland.

What you’ll pay for common violations in Portland, Maine

Portland uses a tiered schedule: routine infractions carry modest fines, while safety-related and accessibility violations are substantially higher. The following list outlines the typical on-time fine amounts you can expect.

• Expired meter or over time-limit in a time-restricted zone: about $30–$35
• No-parking/prohibited area or posted restriction: commonly around $40–$50
• Parking on a sidewalk, in a crosswalk, or blocking a driveway: commonly around $35–$45
• Within 10 feet of a fire hydrant: about $100
• Blocking a bus stop or active travel lane: often $60–$75
• Accessible (handicapped) space without a valid placard/plate: $200 (state penalty level)
• Winter parking ban/snow ban: ticket plus tow and storage (total cost often exceeds $150)

In practical terms, minor violations cluster in the $30–$45 range, while safety and accessibility violations jump to $100–$200. If towing is involved—especially during snow bans—your total out-of-pocket cost can rise quickly due to added tow and storage charges.

Late fees, escalation, and enforcement

Parking fines in Portland increase if you miss the payment deadline printed on your citation. Continued nonpayment can trigger additional enforcement. Here’s what typically happens.

• Missed due date: fines usually increase after the initial due date (late penalties are added).
• Multiple unpaid tickets: you may be subject to booting or towing until outstanding fines are resolved.
• Registration holds: unresolved debts can lead to holds that affect your ability to register a vehicle with the Maine BMV.

To avoid extra costs and complications, pay or contest your ticket promptly and keep records of any payments or appeals you submit.

How to pay or contest a Portland parking ticket

Portland offers several ways to resolve a citation. The specific instructions and deadlines are printed on your ticket; follow those directions closely to avoid late penalties.

• Pay online: use the city’s parking/violations payment portal listed on your ticket.
• Pay by mail: send a check or money order with your citation number to the address shown on the ticket.
• Pay in person: you can pay at the city’s designated payment counter (check your ticket or the city website for current locations and hours).
• Contest the ticket: request an administrative review or hearing by the deadline on your citation; include any evidence (photos, receipts, placard information) supporting your case.

If you’re appealing, submit your request before the deadline and keep copies of everything you send. Late appeals are often denied, and late fees may still accrue while you wait if you miss required steps.

Tips to avoid a ticket in Portland

Portland’s rules are well posted, but enforcement is active—especially downtown and during winter. A few habits can drastically reduce your odds of being cited.

• Check signs on both the block and the specific space before you park.
• Watch meter and time-limit rules; set a phone reminder or use the mobile pay app listed on the meter.
• Leave at least 10 feet of clearance from fire hydrants and avoid blocking driveways, sidewalks, and crosswalks.
• During snowstorms, monitor city winter parking ban announcements and move your car to permitted locations.

A quick scan of the sign, curb paint, and meter—plus attention to winter advisories—can prevent most tickets.

Summary

Expect to pay about $30–$35 for a standard expired-meter or overtime ticket in Portland, Maine, with other routine violations typically $35–$45. Safety and accessibility violations rise to $100–$200, and winter parking bans can add towing and storage, pushing costs well above $150. Fines increase if unpaid, and multiple outstanding tickets can lead to booting, towing, or registration holds. When in doubt, check the instructions on your citation or the City of Portland’s parking information for the latest details.

What is the maximum fine for a parking ticket?

For penalty charges: higher-level parking fines will increase to £160 (£80 if paid in the discounted period) lower-level parking fines will increase to £110 (£55 if paid in the discounted period)

How much is street parking in Portland, Maine?

Street parking in downtown Portland, Maine is paid at a meter and the exact cost varies by zone, but you can expect to pay a rate per hour when meters are in effect from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday, with free parking on Sundays and major holidays. You can use the PassportParking® app or multi-space meters to pay for parking, and if you need more information, you can check the official portlandmaine.gov website. 
How Metered Street Parking Works

• Meters are in effect: from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. 
• Free Parking: Sundays and major holidays are free. 
• Payment Methods: You can pay using the PassportParking® app or at multi-space meters. 
• Parking Zones: Meter rates will vary depending on your location, so check the signs at the meter. 

Where to Find Information

• Official Website: Visit portlandmaine.gov for the most up-to-date information on rates and parking policies. 
• Parking Meters: Look for signs and meters directly at the parking spot to find the specific hourly rate for your location.
• PassportParking® App: Download the app to see real-time rates and pay for your parking session. 

How long do you have to pay a parking ticket in Maine?

30 days
You have 30 days from the date the decision is entered in your case to pay your fine, unless otherwise ordered by a judge.

What happens if you don’t pay a parking ticket in Portland, Maine?

If you have three or more unpaid tickets and fail to arrange for a court hearing or pay the waiver fee within 10 days of the date of the notice, the city can tow or immobilize (“boot”) your vehicle.