No parking sign. Details on what happens when you don’t pay a parking ticket in Alberta, Canada.

We are not going to lecture you on the importance of paying parking tickets. Let’s just stick to the facts.

On the matter of the consequences of parking ticket delinquency, the answer depends on who is issuing the ticket.

Let’s examine what would happen if you don’t pay an Alberta parking ticket:

What happens if you don’t pay a parking ticket in Alberta?

If you don’t pay a parking ticket from a non-private entity, you can face collections, legal action or wage garnishments.

If it is from a private parking agency, it is not treated as a fine, and therefore, there are no legal consequences.

However, the private lot can ban you from using their services in the future.

Parking Tickets Issued by a Public/Government Body

If the parking ticket was issued by a government entity, such as provincial or municipal, it would be treated as a fine.

An example of this might be a parking violation ticket issued by the Calgary Parking Authority.

How Fines are treated in Alberta from Alberta.ca

Summary of how fines are treated

If your parking ticket is issued by a government entity in Alberta, these facts will apply:

  • Paying late will lead to late charges.
  • You must pay all fines, including parking tickets, before you are able to renew your vehicle registration.
  • Failure to pay fines can lead to collections and legal judgements. This can lead to wage garnishment and credit rating damage.

Parking Tickets Issued by a Private Entity

If the parking violation occurred in a private lot ran by a private company, the rules are different.

While they could technically attempt legal action, most of the time, it does not justify the legal fees for them to do this.

Parking tickets issued by private companies are not considered fines, so they are not backed by any laws or bylaws. These companies are legally vulnerable when it comes to parking violation collection issues.

The information in this article does not replace sound legal advice from a competent lawyer or other expert in law.

In Summary

  • Parking tickets issued by the government are treated differently than tickets issued by private parking companies.
  • Government issued parking violations are considered fines, and are treated as such.
  • Privately issued parking violations are not considered fines, and are not backed up by laws or bylaws.
  • Fines must be paid to avoid financial and legal consequences.

🤞 Join the Newsletter!

We don’t spam! Read more in our privacy policy

You Might Also be Wondering:

Pregnant woman standing by the wall. Step by step guide to how to apply for mat leave in Alberta, Canada.
| |

Applying for Maternity Leave in Alberta

ByKnow Alberta

Navigating the process of applying for maternity leave in Alberta requires understanding the eligibility criteria, application steps, and rights both during and after the leave period. Eligibility and Application Process for Maternity Leave in Alberta Eligibility for maternity leave in Alberta is straightforward. If you have been employed with the same employer for at least…

a woman sleeping on the car steering wheel. You can legally nap in your car in Alberta, Canada.
|

Can You Sleep in Your Car in Alberta?

ByKnow Alberta

Fatigued driving is very dangerous and leads to many crashes, injuries and deaths on Alberta roads each year. It is estimated that being awake for 17 to 19 hours is the equivalent of a .05 blood alcohol level. This is considered impaired in the Province of Alberta. Can you sleep in your car in Alberta?…

maxillofacial jaw surgery is covered by alberta health care if deemed medically necessary.
|

Is Jaw Surgery Covered by Alberta Health Care?

ByKnow Alberta

In general, the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) covers pretty much everything that is deemed medically necessary. It also partially covers many other specific medical services. Is jaw surgery covered by Alberta Health Care? Yes, jaw surgery is covered by the Alberta Health Care Plan if it is deemed medically necessary by your physician….

blue bmw sedan near green lawn grass. When to renew vehicle registration in alberta canada

How to know when to Renew your Alberta Vehicle Registration

ByKnow Alberta

In Alberta, vehicle registration renewals are tied to the expiry date based on the owner’s surname or company name. There isn’t a single renewal date applicable to all vehicles across the province. Instead, registrations expire on an assigned month, necessitating attention to individual renewal schedules. When to Renew Registration in Alberta Vehicle registrations in Alberta…

mailbox in front of house. A civic address in Alberta is a basic address.
|

What is a Civic Address in Alberta?

ByKnow Alberta

Navigating through Alberta’s vast landscapes and urban centers, one might often encounter the term “civic address.” This standardized format is essential for various purposes, from mail delivery to emergency services. But what components make up a civic address in Alberta? Let’s explore. What is a Civic Address in Alberta? A civic address, as outlined by…