Transport Bureau warns parking meter payment QR code is fake

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In a recent announcement, officials from the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) issued a warning regarding counterfeit QR code stickers found on parking meters throughout the city. They urged residents and visitors to verify that they are using authorized payment methods to avoid falling victim to scams.

Last week, the SFMTA was alerted to a fake QR code sticker on a parking meter near the popular tourist destination, Fisherman’s Wharf. The deceptive website linked to the QR code has since been disabled.

San Francisco’s parking meters accept coins, credit cards, debit cards, and verified mobile payment apps. The agency emphasizes the importance of using the official app to ensure transaction security.

Parking enforcement typically runs from Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM, but hours and fees may vary on Sundays and during special events. Most parking meters have a two-hour limit, though about 25% allow for four-hour limits or have no time restrictions.

Here is a guide to the verified parking payment methods in San Francisco:

**Paying via Mobile App or Web Browser:** To pay for parking this way, visit the PayByPhone website at m2.paybyphone.com to log in, register, or pay as a guest. After selecting “Park,” input your location number. Single-space parking fee numbers are displayed on stickers, while multi-space stations show their numbers on the equipment and overhead signs. Users can manage parking duration and access receipts and transaction history through their registered accounts.

**Paying with iPhone, Apple Watch, or Android Device:** Download the official “PayByPhone Parking” app. Register or continue as a guest, enter the meter’s location number, and confirm your parking duration. You can update details as needed and manage your parking information through the app’s interface.

**Paying by Phone:** To pay via phone, call 866-490-7275, enter your personal phone number or PIN, input the location number, and select your desired parking time. Payments will be electronically recorded even if the meter’s display has expired.

**Coin Payments:** All parking meters in San Francisco accept coins. Insert coins directly into the meter while ensuring you enter the correct space or vehicle license number. Note that meters do not issue receipts, so be sure to check the remaining time to avoid fines.

**Paying with Credit or Debit Cards:** Parking meters in San Francisco accept payments via Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, and debit cards. Simply insert and remove your card quickly (with the stripe facing down), adjust your parking time using the buttons, and press the green “OK” button to complete the payment. Contactless payments are also accepted via Apple Pay and Android Pay.