Parking FAQ
Parking FAQs
Why did Royal Oak replace the MPS system?
Royal Oak upgraded to pay-by-plate technology and a new mobile app from ParkMobile to improve the parking experience. The new system provides more convenient payment options and enhances parking management with advanced technology.
How does pay-by-plate work?
Instead of entering a space number, you’ll enter your license plate number at the pay station or on the app. There’s no need to return to your car or display a receipt—just pay and go!
What are my payment options?
You can pay:
- At pay stations using coins, credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay
- Through the ParkMobile mobile app
- By text-to-pay
- Or through a web browser checkout as a guest (no app needed)
Do I need to create an account to use the app or pay by phone?
No! You can choose to pay as a guest through a web browser or via text-to-pay, or create an account for the added convenience of saved payment information and session reminders.
Can I still pay with coins or a credit card?
Yes! The new pay stations accept coins, credit/debit cards, and mobile wallets, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Will rates and time limits change?
The parking rates and time limits will stay the same for now. This upgrade focuses on improving convenience and technology.
Are the Civic Complex parking lots (adjacent to City Hall, the Police Department, the Courthouse, and the Farmers Market) free?
No; as of Feb. 16, 2026, these lots are a part of the ParkMobile system and paid parking is in effect, There are two exceptions: during City Commission meetings (generally held on the second and fourth Mondays of each month; parking will be free after 6:00 p.m.) and during the Saturday Farmers Market (before 2:00 p.m.).
If you're looking for free parking to visit the Civic Complex, the 11 Mile Garage offers two hours of free parking.
How do I extend my parking session?
You can extend your session remotely using the ParkMobile mobile app, text-to-pay, or a web browser—no need to return to the pay station! Just remember, extensions are only allowed within posted time limits.
Is the new system more environmentally friendly?
Yes! The pay stations reduce paper waste since you don’t need a printed receipt, and are solar-powered, helping Royal Oak meet its sustainability goals.
Will enforcement change with the new system?
The City’s enforcement team will continue to monitor parking, but now they’ll verify payment by scanning your license plate.
Can I pay for multiple vehicles at once?
You’ll need to start a separate transaction for each vehicle, but with the ParkMobile app or web browser, it’s easy to manage multiple plates if you have an account.
What if I enter the wrong plate number?
Be sure to double-check your plate number when you pay. If you enter the wrong plate, your session won’t match, and you could receive a ticket. If you realize your mistake right away, you can pay again with the correct plate and request a refund through the City’s parking team.
Is the system ADA accessible?
Yes. The new pay stations are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring high-contrast screens, audio prompts, and physical accessibility options for wheelchair users.
Will I get reminders before my time runs out?
Yes! If you choose to receive your receipt by text at the pay station or use the ParkMobile app or text-to-pay, you’ll receive reminders when your session is about to expire, allowing you to extend your time if needed (as long as you’re within the posted limits).
Can I pay for parking before I arrive?
No, you should only pay once you’re parked. But once you’ve parked, you can pay at any nearby pay station, through the ParkMobile app, by text, or using a web browser.
Do I have to download an app to pay?
Nope! While the ParkMobile app offers the most features, you can also pay using text-to-pay, a web browser, or at a pay station—no download required.
What is the benefit of using the mobile app?
The ParkMobile app makes it easy to start or extend your session, get reminders before time expires, and manage multiple vehicles—all in one place.
Will my personal information be secure?
Yes, the new system uses secure payment processing and encryption to protect your data, whether you pay at a pay station, through the ParkMobile app, or by phone.
What happens if I don’t pay?
Just like today, parking must be paid during enforcement hours. If you don’t pay, you may receive a ticket.
Can I get a receipt for my parking session?
Yes! If you use the ParkMobile app, you can choose how you get your receipt. Additionally, all your parking session history will be saved. At the pay stations, you can request a printed receipt or a receipt by text, though you don’t need it for enforcement.
What if I need help?
Instructions will be posted on all pay stations, and a phone number will be available for customer support. The City’s website will also include helpful tips and a guide to using the new system.
Will there be a learning curve?
The City will provide clear signage, online resources, and community outreach events to help everyone get familiar with the new system.