New Parking Payment Options: More Flexibility and Helpful Reminders

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By
Pamela Johnson
Monday, May 11, 2026

Closeup of SFMTA parking meters on a sidewalk near parked cars.

Learn how our new parking payment options offer more flexibility so you can get where you need to go.

Paying for metered parking in San Francisco has never been easier or more flexible thanks to two new mobile payment options we’re offering.  

With HotSpot and ParkMobile, you can pay for metered parking directly from your phone. 

By offering more choices, we are making it more convenient than ever to pay for parking. With both HotSpot and ParkMobile, you can: 
 

  • Pay for parking at any SFMTA parking meter using your phone
  • Get reminders before your session expires, helping you avoid citations 
  • Extend your parking time remotely, without returning to the meter 
  • Pay as a guest or create an account 
  • Pay using an app, through a web browser or by making a phone call 

Both services are widely used in cities across the U.S. and Canada, making them familiar choices for many drivers. Mobile parking payments come with a $0.35 convenience fee. 

PayByPhone service phasing out in mid-May 

HotSpot and ParkMobile are the official mobile payment options for all SFMTA parking meters. Starting in mid-May, PayByPhone will be phased out and no longer accepted. So, drivers must use one of the new service providers or pay with cash or a credit/debit card at the meter.  

We’re here to help as you try the new parking payment apps!


Closeup of three parking meters with red circles that identify where to find the parking location numbers on the meter.

Parking location numbers can be found on single-space meters, multi-space pay stations or overhead signs. 

How to get started 

  • You can also access HotSpot and ParkMobile via web browser or by calling a toll-free phone number: 
  • Enter the 8-digit parking location number, your length of stay and confirm all details to begin your session.  
  • You can pay as a guest, or you can set up an account so you’re ready to pay for parking when you need it. 

With HotSpot and ParkMobile, paying for metered parking in San Francisco is quick and easy. Choose the service that works best for you!