NYC Parking Meter Guide: Rules, Rates & Apps (2025)
NYC has over 85,000 parking meters generating $300+ million annually. Understanding how they work saves you from the $65+ tickets that catch thousands of drivers daily.
85,000+
Parking meters citywide
$1.50-$7.50
Per hour (varies by zone)
$65
Expired meter ticket
Meter Hours of Operation
NYC parking meters don't all follow the same schedule. Here's the general pattern:
| Area Type | Days | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Standard (most areas) | Mon-Sat | 7 AM - 10 PM |
| Commercial districts | Mon-Sat | 7 AM - Midnight |
| High-traffic Manhattan | 7 Days | Varies (24/7 in some) |
| Outer borough residential | Mon-Sat | 8 AM - 7 PM |
Always Check the Sign
The hours displayed on the meter or Muni-Meter are the official times. Don't assume based on location—some blocks have different rules than neighboring streets.
Parking Meter Rates by Area
NYC uses demand-based pricing—rates are higher in congested areas. Here's the current rate structure:
Manhattan (Below 86th St)
$3.50 - $7.50/hrHighest rates citywide. Times Square area can reach $7.50/hour. 1-2 hour limits common.
Manhattan (Above 86th St)
$2.00 - $3.50/hrMore affordable uptown. Washington Heights and Inwood at the lower end.
Brooklyn & Queens (Commercial)
$1.50 - $2.50/hrDowntown Brooklyn and LIC trending higher. Most neighborhoods at $1.50-$2.00.
Bronx & Staten Island
$1.00 - $2.00/hrGenerally the lowest rates. Some areas still at $1.00/hour.
How to Pay for Meter Parking
At the Meter
- Credit/Debit Card: Most Muni-Meters accept cards
- Coins: Quarters accepted at all meters
- NYC Parking Card: Prepaid cards available at stores
Mobile Payment
- ParkNYC App: Official NYC app (iOS/Android)
- ParkMobile: Also accepted at NYC meters
- PayByPhone: Alternative mobile option
Why Use the ParkNYC App?
- • Extend time remotely: Add time without returning to car (up to max limit)
- • Expiration alerts: Get notifications before your time runs out
- • Receipt history: Easy tracking for expenses
- • Zone lookup: See rates before you park
Meter Time Limits
Even with unlimited money, you can't stay at a meter forever. Time limits are strictly enforced:
Common Time Limits
- 1 hour: High-turnover commercial areas (Midtown, retail zones)
- 2 hours: Most common limit citywide
- 4 hours: Some outer borough areas
- 10 hours: Rare, usually near transit hubs
No "Meter Feeding"
Adding more time when your limit expires is illegal. Enforcement officers can issue tickets if your car exceeds the posted time limit, even with a valid receipt. You must move your car to a different block.
Meter Parking Tickets & Fines
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Expired meter | $65 |
| No receipt displayed (Muni-Meter zone) | $65 |
| Overtime meter (exceeding time limit) | $65 |
| Feeding meter (extending beyond limit) | $65 |
Fines increase if not paid within 30 days. Multiple unpaid tickets can lead to vehicle booting or towing.
Money-Saving Tips
Time Your Arrival
Arrive after 7 PM on Saturdays or anytime Sunday (in most areas) for free parking. Meters in residential areas often end at 7 PM on weekdays too.
Check One Block Over
Meter rates can vary significantly between adjacent blocks. Commercial strips charge more than side streets just 50 feet away.
Use the App for Alerts
ParkNYC sends expiration warnings 10 minutes before time runs out. This alone prevents most meter tickets.
Know Holiday Rules
Meters are suspended on major holidays. Check our ASP Calendar—meter suspensions often align with ASP suspensions.
Complete Parking Intelligence
CityPing helps NYC drivers navigate all parking rules—not just meters. Get alerts for:
- ✓ASP suspension days (when you don't need to move)
- ✓Holiday parking rule changes
- ✓Snow emergency declarations
- ✓Congestion pricing updates
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do parking meters start in NYC?
Most NYC parking meters start at 7 AM Monday through Saturday. Some commercial areas start at 6 AM. Always check the signage—hours vary by location.
Are NYC parking meters free on Sundays?
Most NYC parking meters are free on Sundays. However, some high-traffic areas in Manhattan (like Times Square and the Theater District) have meters active 7 days a week. Verify with posted signage.
Can I pay for NYC parking with my phone?
Yes. The official ParkNYC app works at all metered spaces citywide. ParkMobile and PayByPhone are also accepted. Look for the zone number on the meter to enter in the app.
What happens if I overstay my meter time limit?
You'll receive a $65 overtime meter ticket. Even if you add more money, exceeding the posted time limit (usually 1-2 hours) is a violation. You must move your car to a different block.
Related Parking Guides
NYC Parking Rules Guide
Complete guide to all NYC parking regulations and restrictions.
How to Dispute a Parking Ticket
Step-by-step guide to fighting NYC parking tickets.
NYC Alternate Side Parking Guide
Complete guide to ASP rules, regulations, and how to avoid tickets.
NYC Congestion Pricing Guide
Tolls, exemptions, and savings strategies for Manhattan driving.
Park Smarter in NYC
Get daily alerts on parking rules and suspensions
Sign Up Free