As of June 4, drivers in Ottawa can appeal parking tickets through the new Administrative Penalty System (APS), without going through the provincial court.

There are now two stages to appeal: first, you can request a "case review" from a municipal inspector online or in person. If you are not satisfied with the decision, you can appeal to an independent lawyer appointed by the city council for a hearing. Their decision is final.

To overturn or reduce a fine, the driver must prove that the violation did not occur or that paying it would cause undue hardship.

The request must be made within 15 days of the date of the fine. If you miss the deadline, you can ask for an extension of up to 30 days if you have a valid reason. After that, the right to appeal is lost.

Fines issued before June 3 are appealed under the old system through the courts.