How do I fight a parking ticket in Alabama?

Alabama parking enforcement is governed by Ala. Code § 32-5A-137 and city ordinances.

1. Birmingham

Birmingham Municipal Court handles parking tickets.

Court date listed on ticket (typically 14-30 days out).

Online portal at birminghamalcourt.gov.

2. Montgomery

Montgomery Municipal Court handles tickets.

30-day window.

3. Mobile

Mobile Municipal Court; 14-30 day window.

4. Huntsville / Tuscaloosa

Municipal courts; 14-30 day windows with mail-in plea options.

5. Contest Procedure

File written not guilty plea before the court date or appear in person.

Bench trial before a municipal judge.

Bring photographs, sign diagrams, placard, witness statements.

6. Common Defenses

Signage missing, faded, or obstructed.

Disabled placard under Ala. Code § 32-6-231 valid and displayed.

Meter malfunction — most ordinances permit free parking.

Wrong plate or vehicle type on the citation.

Vehicle was sold or stolen before the violation.

7. Late Penalties

Failure to appear results in bench warrant (FTA) and additional fines.

Collection fees of up to 30% added under Ala. Code § 12-17-225.4 after 90 days.

8. License Suspension

Under Ala. Code § 32-5A-195, failure to appear or pay can result in driver's license suspension.

$100 reinstatement fee plus all debt.

9. Registration Holds

Alabama does not generally place registration holds for parking tickets alone.

10. Appeals

Municipal Court decisions are appealable to Circuit Court within 14 days under Ala. R. App. P. 30 for trial de novo.

11. Vehicle Booting

Birmingham permits booting of vehicles with 3+ unpaid tickets under City Code § 10-3-21.

This is legal information, not legal advice.