How to Appeal a Citation

There are three levels of parking citation appeals. Each step in the appeal process must be taken in order and initiated within strict time frames. No step can be skipped in favor of jumping to another step. Each level of appeal focuses on a different aspect of the citation. Denial of an appeal at one level may not indicate that further appeal might not be successful.

Level 1 Appeal - Administrative Review
The Level 1 appeal is an administrative review to determine if the citation was validly issued. You have 30 days from the issue date of the citation or 21 days from the date on the Notice of Illegal Parking, to contest the citation by requesting an Administrative Review. Level 1 appeals can only be submitted through the CPC, via online at www.citationprocessingcenter.com or by calling 1800-989-2058.

Persons appealing citations may include anything they wish to support their position that the citation should be dismissed. This may include statements, charts, diagrams, photographs, drawings, video tapes, maps or receipts just to name a few. It is also important that the citation number, vehicle license plate number and state be included with the appeal request. A clear copy of the citation attached to the appeal is beneficial and may expedite processing. A decision notice will be mailed to the person appealing regardless of the outcome.

Step 2- Administrative Hearing
If your appeal is denied at the first stage, you can present your appeal to an administrative hearing officer. Your second-level appeal filing deadline will be provided along with the notice you receive that denies your first appeal. State Law requires that funds equal to the amount of your potential fine be deposited before the second level hearing can occur.

You can choose to make your second level appeal in writing, by telephone, or in person. We encourage your participation at the hearing in case the hearing officer has any questions. However, if you are unable to attend, the hearing officer will review all the information presented and make a decision.

You will be notified by mail of the administrative hearing officer’s decision. Should the citation be dismissed, funds you deposited prior to the hearing will be refunded. If the decision of the hearing officer is not in your favor the deposit will be used as payment of your fine.

Step 3 - Superior Court Appeal
If the Hearing Examiner does not dismiss your citation and you wish to continue contesting the citation, you may appeal the decision to Superior Court. You must request an appeal within 30-calendar days of the date of the Hearing Examiner's decision. You must file for the appeal in person at the Superior Court. There is a filing fee per citation required by the Court, which will be refunded to you if the judge rules in your favor. The decision of the Superior Court is final and, should the ruling not be determined in your favor, there is no further appeal.

Parking citation appeals to the Superior Court may be filed at the address listed below:

Renee C. Davidson Alameda County Court
1225 Fallon St.
Oakland, CA 94612
510-891-6000

Court hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Monday through Friday, except during court holidays and furloughs.