How do I fight a parking ticket in Michigan?

Michigan parking tickets are civil infractions under MCL § 257.675, processed by city ordinance.

1. Detroit

Municipal Parking Department handles citations.

14 days to contest by mail, online, or in person at 1600 W. Lafayette.

Hearings before an administrative hearing officer.

2. Lansing

21 days to contest via the City of Lansing Parking Services.

Online portal and in-person hearings at 124 W. Michigan Ave.

3. Ann Arbor

14 days to request hearing through the Parking Violations Bureau.

4. Grand Rapids and Smaller Cities

Typically 21-30 day windows; many use mail-in and online portals.

5. Common Defenses

Signage missing, faded, or obstructed.

Disabled parking placard (MCL § 257.675b) properly displayed.

Meter malfunction — most ordinances permit free parking at broken meters.

Wrong plate or vehicle type on the citation.

Vehicle was stolen (police report required).

Owner was not the operator — some cities allow owner to nominate driver.

6. Late Penalties

Most cities double the fine after 14-21 days.

Collection fees added after 30-60 days (often 25%).

7. Secretary of State Registration Holds

Under MCL § 257.219, the SOS can deny vehicle registration renewal when a city certifies unpaid parking debts.

Pay all outstanding debt plus clearance fee before renewal.

8. Appeals

Administrative decisions can be appealed to the 36th District Court (Detroit) or local District Court within 28 days under MCR 7.103.

De novo review is generally available.

9. Booting and Towing

Detroit may boot vehicles with 3+ unpaid tickets; tow after 5+.

Boot fee $50, tow fee $200+, storage $25/day.

This is legal information, not legal advice.