21 | Parking Tickets

Today you will learn 5 new English words related to "Parking Tickets"

Author

SEWT Team
August 06, 2025

“Parking tickets” are a relevant topic for you, an ESL learner, as they represent a common, real-world scenario involving rules, regulations, and potential consequences. Understanding the vocabulary related to parking violations, fines, and payment procedures is essential for navigating daily life in English-speaking countries. This topic also provides opportunities to practice reading and interpreting legal documents, asking for clarification, and expressing opinions about rules and regulations, all while developing practical communication skills. So, let’s jump right in!

5 TERMS

  1. Violation (Noun): The act of breaking or not following a rule, law, or regulation.

  2. Fine (Noun): A monetary charge or penalty for breaking a law or rule.

  3. Citation (Noun): A written notice or ticket given by a law enforcement officer as a record of an offense.

  4. Meter (Noun): A device that measures the amount of time a vehicle is parked in a designated area, often requiring payment.

  5. Tow (Verb): To remove a vehicle from its parking spot, typically because it is parked illegally.

EXAMPLE SENTENCES

  1. Violation

    • He received a violation notice for parking in a no-parking zone.

    • The officer issued a violation ticket for exceeding the parking time limit.

    • The violation of parking rules can result in fines or penalties.

  2. Fine

    • You’ll need to pay the fine within 30 days to avoid additional charges.

    • The parking fine for parking in a restricted area is $50.

    • He was upset when he got a fine for parking too close to a fire hydrant.

  3. Citation 

    • She received a citation for parking in a handicapped spot without the proper permit.

    • The officer issued a citation for an expired meter.

    • You can contest the citation if you believe it was issued in error.

  4. Meter

    • The meter ran out, and I received a ticket for overstaying my parking time.

    • Make sure you feed the meter before you leave to avoid a parking ticket.

    • The parking meter malfunctioned, and I still got a ticket for an expired meter.

  5. Tow

    • My car was towed after I parked in a restricted zone.

    • If you don’t pay your parking fine, your car may be towed.

    • The authorities will tow your car if it’s blocking a driveway.

EXAMPLE PARAGRAPH

Receiving a parking citation can be a frustrating experience, especially when it involves a hefty fine. Often, the violation stems from exceeding the time limit on a parking meter or parking in a restricted zone. In severe cases, repeated infractions can lead to the vehicle being subject to a tow, adding further expense and inconvenience. Understanding local parking regulations is crucial to avoid such penalties.