Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I have to pay to park?

Campus parking facilities are not supported by taxpayer dollars but are self-supporting. California state law states that permission to park on campus is granted to those persons who have paid a parking fee. This includes students, staff, faculty, and university visitors who are attending special events, such as cultural shows, musical/theatrical performances, sporting events, and conferences, or visiting facilities like the Library, Bookstore, or Gym

When do I have to pay to park?

Permit and meter fee hours: Monday through Thursday 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 p.m. Fridays 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. After 5:00 p.m. on Friday through Monday at 7:00 a.m., parking is free. However, special zones (i.e. handicapped stalls, red curbs) are enforced 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

How do I buy a permit?

You can purchase a daily permit from one of the dispensers in the parking lots or from the Parking Kiosk on Rossow St. Annual and semester permits can be purchased from the Student Financial Services office on the second floor of the SBS. General permits or resident permits can be purchased online before the start of the term via your Student Center account. Students living on campus can also buy permits from the Housing Cashier.

Are permits valid at meters?

No. Parking Permits are valid only in non-metered stalls. If you park at a meter, you need to pay for the time the vehicle is in the stall. Meters take nickels, dimes, and quarters.

How do I pay a citation?

Payments can be made either via the mail, online, or over the phone. If you believe the citation was issued in error, you can contest it by going to www.pmbonline.org. The citation must be contested within 21 days. Any vehicles that have received 5 or more citations that remain unpaid could be subject to immobilization or impound.

How do I contest a citation?

Contested citations must be appealed within 21 calendar days of the violation date. Citations can be contested online at www.pmbonline.org. The response will be emailed back to you. If you disagree with the result of the appeal, you may request an Administrative Hearing. You must deposit the citation penalty at the time your hearing is scheduled. Contact www.pmbonline.org, to schedule a hearing.

Do my unpaid parking citations put a hold on my grades?

No. Unpaid parking citations go to a DMV hold and you cannot register your car without paying the citations. Late payment of citations is subject to additional fees. Multiple unpaid citations could result in your vehicle being immobilized or impounded.

My JackPass is not working. What do I do?

Report any problems with your JackPass card to Parking & Commuter Services and we will do our best to resolve the issue for you.

My ticket says City of Arcata on it, how do I take care of it?

The City of Arcata patrols parking meters and neighborhoods surrounding the campus. Inquiries regarding these tickets should be directed to the Arcata Police Department at 736 F Street (across from Safeway).