Meters, signs, and daytime parking.

Understand your space before feeding the meter or leaving the car.

Checked against city sources · September 7, 2026

Read the sign for the space you’re using. Payment hours and maximum parking time are separate things.

Paying does not reset the time limit

Meter rates and time limits vary by location, and special-event rates can apply. Adding money does not let you stay beyond a space’s maximum time. Follow the meter, posted signs, and the city’s payment instructions.

City source: City parking meters

Weekends and holidays

Some meters do not require payment on Saturdays, but time limits can still apply. The city lists Sundays and specified holidays as exempt at metered spaces. That is not permission to ignore unrelated restrictions, loading zones, or temporary signs.

City source: City parking meters

What does a meter bag mean?

A “No Parking” bag closes that space. A plain bag or “Follow Signs” bag means meter payment is not required, but the applicable parking restrictions remain.

City source: City parking meters

Parking at home during the day

An overnight permit does not automatically remove daytime time limits. Some residents qualify for a separate daytime permit. Check eligibility against your address and circumstances.

City source: City parking permits

These guides cover the City of Milwaukee. Nearby municipalities have their own rules. Always follow posted signs and current city instructions.