To dispute a City of London parking ticket online, you must request a “Screening Review” through the city’s official parking portal within 15 days of receiving the notice. A municipal Screening Officer will review your explanation and evidence to either uphold, reduce, or cancel the penalty. As of 2026, requesting this review is completely free of charge.
Returning to your vehicle in downtown London or near Western University only to find a bright yellow slip on your windshield is incredibly frustrating. While most people grumble and immediately pay the fine, you always have the legal right to challenge a municipal parking infraction. The City of London uses an Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS), which means parking disputes are handled directly by the municipality rather than the provincial court system.
Fighting a parking penalty does not require hiring a law firm. 📑 The online system is designed to be accessible and straightforward, allowing residents to explain honest mistakes or present evidence of broken parking meters. If you feel the penalty was issued unfairly, taking a few minutes to submit an online dispute can save you money and clear your record.
Step-by-Step Process in London, Ontario
The AMPS process is completely distinct from fighting a speeding ticket. You will not be appearing before a judge; instead, your case is reviewed by city-appointed officers. Here is how you navigate the online dispute portal.
Step 1: Act Within 15 Days
Time is of the essence when dealing with parking penalties. ⌚️ From the date the ticket is issued, you have exactly 15 days to either pay the fine or request a Screening Review. If you miss this window, the city will assume you are guilty, add late fees, and revoke your right to dispute the charge.
Step 2: Submit a Screening Review Online
Go to the official City of London website and navigate to the parking portal. You will need your Penalty Notice Number (found at the top of your ticket) and your vehicle’s licence plate number. Once logged in, you can select the option to request a Screening Review. You will be provided with a text box to explain why the ticket should be cancelled. You can also upload evidence, such as a photograph of a hidden parking sign, a valid parking pass that fell off the dash, or a receipt from a parking app like HonkMobile.
Step 3: Wait for the Screening Officer’s Decision
Once submitted, a Screening Officer will review your file. 🔍 You do not need to attend a meeting; the officer makes a decision based entirely on your written submission and the Bylaw Officer’s notes. They have the authority to affirm the penalty, reduce the fine amount, or cancel it entirely. You will receive their decision via email or mail.
Step 4: Request a Hearing Officer (If Necessary)
If you disagree with the Screening Officer’s decision, you have one final option. You can request a formal review by a Hearing Officer. This is a more formal meeting (often conducted virtually or by phone) where you present your case directly to an independent adjudicator. Their decision is final and binding; you cannot appeal a parking ticket to the Superior Court of Justice.
How Much Does it Cost in London?
Disputing a parking ticket does not cost anything upfront, but the fines vary depending on the specific by-law you broke. 💵 Here is a look at standard costs as of April 2026.
| Expense / Fine | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Screening Review Request | $0 | The City of London does not charge administrative fees to dispute a ticket online. |
| Expired Meter Penalty | $40 – $50 | Standard fine for overstaying your paid time in a municipal lot or street spot. |
| Fire Route / Accessible Spot | $300 – $400+ | Severe penalties for parking in emergency zones or without a valid accessible permit. |
| Late Payment Fees | $25 – $40 | Added to your original fine if you fail to pay or dispute within the initial 15-day window. |
How Long Does the Process Take?
The online submission takes less than 15 minutes to complete. 🕐 However, waiting for the City of London to process your dispute takes time. You can generally expect to receive the Screening Officer’s decision within 4 to 8 weeks. If you escalate the matter to a Hearing Officer, scheduling that appointment can take an additional 2 to 3 months. While your ticket is under review, no late fees will be applied to your account.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happens if I just ignore the parking ticket?
If you ignore the penalty, the City of London will add late fees and eventually forward the debt to ServiceOntario. You will be completely blocked from renewing your driver’s licence or vehicle plate stickers until the outstanding balance is paid in full.
Do parking tickets affect my auto insurance?
No. Municipal parking infractions are not considered moving violations and do not appear on your MTO driving record. Your insurance company will not see them, and they will not increase your premiums.
Can my car be towed for unpaid tickets?
Yes. If you accumulate multiple unpaid parking penalties and continue to park illegally on city property, the London Parking Enforcement team can authorize your vehicle to be towed and impounded at your expense.
Will the officer reduce my fine if I cannot afford it?
Yes. AMPS Screening Officers have the discretion to reduce the penalty amount or grant an extension for payment if you can demonstrate severe financial hardship.
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