You may request a review online, in writing, or verbally within:

• 21 days of receiving the citation, or

• 14 days of receiving a delinquent notice.
  (Per California Vehicle Code §40215)

The procedures to contest/appeal a citation are governed by California Vehicle Code (CVC 40215).

How to Submit

• Online: Citation Processing Center

• Mail Printable Form To: Parking Services, 1260 Chorro St., San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

Include photos or documentation to support your appeal.

Appeal Steps

1. Initial Review – Citation placed on hold; decision within 4 - 6 weeks by mail or email.

2. Administrative Hearing – To request an administrative hearing, you must fill out this form and return it within 14 days of decision notice. Fine must be paid (payment plans and hardship waivers available). If paying the fine prior to the hearing will cause a hardship, you may request a Bond Waiver. 

3. Civil Appeal – File with SLO Superior Court within 30 days if hearing decision is upheld. Filing fee required.

If your citation is dismissed, no payment is due or refunds will be issued.

Payment plans are available.

If the administrative hearing upholds your citation, you may file a civil appeal with SLO Superior Court within 30 days of the hearing decision (filing fee required). 

If your citation is dismissed, fines will be refunded within 90 days.

Revenue gained from citations and parking meters is used to maintain current parking and for additional parking, such as new structures and lots.

• Pay online: slo.citationportal.com There is a processing fee of $3.
• Pay by Mail: Make personal checks or money orders out to the City of San Luis Obispo and mail to 1260 Chorro St., Suite #B, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401.(DO NOT MAIL CASH.)
• Pay in Person: Hours are Monday through Friday 8 AM-5 PM. We have a Drop Box located to the right of our front doors that you can drop payment into after hours. (NO CASH/COIN ACCEPTED IN DROP BOX).

A citation must be paid before the Due Date listed on the citation to avoid any delinquent penalties.

There are motorcycle meters located throughout the downtown area (click here). Long-term motorcycle meters are located in front of 842 Palm Parking Garage and in the parking lot beneath the 871 Marsh Parking Garage.  For safety reasons, motorcycles are not permitted in the garages. Bicycle racks are located conveniently throughout the city.   

The City of SLO has partnered with PayByPhone as the single parking app provider in downtown San Luis Obispo. PayByPhone is an easy and convenient way to pay for parking using your mobile device. To register, simply download the PayByPhone app from the App Store or Google Pay, or visit the PayByPhone website. Make sure you have your license plate number, mobile phone number, email address and credit card available to complete your registration.

Starting July 2024:

• Rates for three-hour street parking in the main downtown core is $2.75 per hour.
• Rates  for 10-hour street parking in the outer downtown area is $2.25 per hour.
• Rates for the parking garage are $2 per hour, with a maximum daily rate of $8.