Parking in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) can be stressful, especially with strict parking laws, smart meters, and ticket risks. If you’re driving through areas like the Hollywood Entertainment Core or even heading to a Dodger game, knowing the rules about parking and permit zones is key to avoiding unexpected towing or costly parking citations.
Parking violations in Los Angeles are handled by various agencies, including the Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT), LAPD traffic officers, and the Official Police Garages. A car accident lawyer in Los Angeles can explain how parking meters, curb colors, and regulations work and can help if your vehicle is towed. Ahead, we’ll cover our guide to parking laws in DTLA and how to avoid a ticket.
Understanding Different Types of Parking in DTLA
Parking in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) can be difficult for drivers who are unfamiliar with the different types of parking options and restrictions. Between smart meters, street cleaning hours, and curb colors, it’s important to know what’s allowed in each area to avoid parking violations or towing.
Parking garages and off-street parking lots are found near major spots like Staples Center, LAX Airport, and Dodger Stadium. These lots may charge flat rates or adjust pricing during events. Parking management websites and digital tools can help you find open spots and avoid a ticket.
Types of Street Parking
Understanding street parking types can help avoid citations:
- Residential parking: Often requires a residential parking permit
- Street sweeping zones: Enforced on set days, often early mornings
- Permit parking: Allowed only with proper stickers or hangtags
Curb Colors and Their Meaning
Different curb colors mark what kind of parking is allowed:
- Red curb: No stopping, standing, or parking
- White curb: Passenger loading and unloading only
- Yellow-painted curb: Loading zones for commercial use
- Blue curb: Accessible Parking Zone for disabled permits
If you park near the Hollywood Sign, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, or Metro stations, look for posted signs about time limits or event restrictions. A Los Angeles traffic violation lawyer can explain the abandoned vehicle rules and the 72-hour rule.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
Identifying High-Risk Ticket Areas in Los Angeles
Certain areas in Los Angeles have a higher chance of parking enforcement due to heavy traffic, special events, or strict local parking regulations. Knowing where parking citations are more common can help drivers avoid fines, towing fees, or having to deal with a parking violation.
Downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, and areas near Staples Center, Dodger Stadium, and LAX Airport are known for frequent ticketing. These spots are monitored by The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) enforcement officers, LAPD traffic units, and even private agencies under contract. The risk increases during event days or street cleaning schedules.
Watch These Zones for Increased Parking Enforcement
- Street sweeping zones: Tickets are often issued during the early morning hours
- Residential areas: Permit-only parking is common, especially near Metro stations
- Loading zones: Yellow curbs are active during business hours
- 72-hour rule: Cars left too long in one spot may be towed as abandoned vehicles
Be especially careful in areas using smart parking meters or digital enforcement. Some zones are tracked in real-time, and parking apps may alert enforcement officers once the time has expired. If you receive a ticket in these zones, the violation may already be logged before you return to your car.
Strategies for Contesting Parking Tickets
The Los Angeles Department of Transportation (LADOT) allows drivers to contest parking citations online or by mail. Common issues like broken parking meters, unclear parking signs, or incorrectly marked curb colors can serve as a basis for your defense. Use parking apps like ParkMobile or PARK SMARTER to show payment history if you used cashless payment.
Supporting Your Case
- Photos: Show the curb, meter, or sign at the time of citation
- Receipts: From smart meters, parking apps, or off-street parking lots
- Proof of permits: Residential parking permits or Accessible Parking placards
Where to Submit Your Dispute
If your vehicle was towed or marked as abandoned under the 72-hour rule, check with the Official Police Garages to gather documents and locate your car. You may still be able to appeal if enforcement officers file a false report or if your vehicle registration was current but incorrectly entered into the system.
- LADOT website: File a request to review the citation
- Mail: Include a written explanation and any evidence
- Phone: Call the parking enforcement line to ask about deadlines and options
Appealing a ticket does not guarantee dismissal, but preparing clear evidence and responding early can improve your chances. Use tools like LA Express Park™ or SpotHero to help monitor your parking history and stay informed.
Talk to a Car Accident Lawyer if You Have a Parking Ticket
While a parking ticket may not seem related to a crash, some drivers receive citations after accidents involving traffic flow issues, blocked lanes, or improper parking in emergencies. In some cases, a parked car may even be blamed for contributing to the incident.
If your ticket followed an accident involving an e-scooter, electric vehicle, or street parking dispute, the Simmrin Law Team could help you understand what legal steps you can take. We can review reports, vehicle registration issues, and towing records.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form