New DMV law lets local governments waive or reduce parking tickets

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) - The DMV of California rolled out several new laws for 2026. One new law authorizes local governments to waive or reduce parking penalties if a person is unable to pay and requires the provision of a payment plan if requested. The DMV says the goal is to help prevent escalating fines and vehicle towing that "disproportionately impacts low-income families."

Palm Springs Police Department says that prior to this new law, drivers were able to request fee waivers up to 60 days after their citation. Now, with this new law, drivers can make that request at any point after the citation.

"It does provide a improvement for our community, especially an individual that is now not generating an income," says Lieutenant Gustavo Araiza with the Palm Springs Police Department.