Scam alert: fake parking ticket text messages circulating in Kingston
The City of Kingston is advising residents of recently reported scam text messages claiming the recipient has unpaid parking fines. These messages are typically generic and may include statements such as “Parking Notice: Your vehicle was parked in a prohibited area.” They often urge recipients to “avoid penalties” and contain a link for payment.
Do not click any links in these messages. Delete the text immediately.
How the City of Kingston communicates legitimate parking fines
The City of Kingston does not issue parking fine notifications by text message. The only legitimate methods used are:
- A parking ticket placed on the vehicle or handed directly to the driver by a by-law officer.
- Up to two letters sent by Canada Post to the registered owner of the vehicle.
Vehicle owner information is obtained from the Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO). The MTO provides only the registered owner’s name and mailing address—never a phone number. Official notices always include details such as the ticket number and may also list the location and by-law infraction.
Need to verify a notice?
If you are ever unsure about the legitimacy of a parking fine notice, please contact the City of Kingston:
📞 613-546-0000
📧 contactus@cityofkingston.ca
Contact Us
City of Kingston
City Hall
216 Ontario Street
Kingston, ON K7L 2Z3
Canada
contactus@cityofkingston.ca
Phone: 613-546-0000
The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron-Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.
Today, the City is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.
Learn more about the City's reconciliation initiatives.
