How to Use Parking Meters

by Michelle Varsallona
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It's often difficult to find a place to park in a big city or at the beach. Most highly populated towns and cities use parking meters. The parking meters help cities bring in revenue and ensure safe and orderly parking throughout the city. If you are not careful, you may end up with a ticket or, even worse, you many get towed. All you need is a few quarters, then you are set to enjoy your trip.

Step 1

Find your ideal parking spot in front of or alongside an empty meter. An empty meter will have a large red notification on it that can be seen from the road while you're searching for a parking space.

Step 2

Park car and insert quarters into the machine. Use the amount of quarters you will need for the length of your stay. Rates may vary. For example: If the machine says one quarter equals 30 minutes and you want to stay two hours, then you must insert four quarters. Also, some machines may take dimes and nickels, and some even take credit cards.

Step 3

Turn the dial or the key to start the meter.

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