What PA House Bill 1862 Means for Pennsylvania’s Parking Industry
A New Era of Transparency, Compliance, and Operational Efficiency for Private Parking Operators
On July 17, 2026, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania enacted House Bill 1862, a wide‑ranging transportation bill that includes one of the most significant updates to private parking operations in decades. Section 6 (§3356 – Private Parking Lots) introduces a regulated, transparent, and privacy‑protected process for how private parking operators may issue parking charges and contact vehicle owners.
The law officially takes effect July 1, 2027, giving operators, vendors, and enforcement partners time to prepare for compliance. For Pennsylvania’s parking industry, this is more than a regulatory change; it’s a modernization of how private parking is managed, communicated, and enforced.
Why This Matters for Parking Operators
Section 6 creates a clear legal pathway for private parking lots to obtain limited PennDOT registration information, specifically the name and mailing address of a vehicle’s registrant. This access is strictly controlled and may only be used to send invoices for:
Unpaid parking charges
Violations of posted rules
For operators, this solves a long‑standing challenge: How do we contact drivers who leave without paying or violating posted terms? The new system provides a reliable, compliant method to recover fees while protecting driver’s privacy.
Key Requirements Operators Need to Know
1. Mandatory Signage at Lot Entrances
Operators must post clear, visible signage stating:
The lot is privately operated
Parking rates
Fees for rule violations
This transparency protects both drivers and operators by establishing clear expectations.
2. 10‑Day Invoice Deadline
Invoices for unpaid charges or violations must be:
Placed on the vehicle; or
Mailed to the registered owner
These tasks must be done within 10 business days of the parking event. This ensures timely communication and reduces disputes.
3. Strict Data‑Privacy Rules
Operators or their designated agents must:
Access PennDOT records only through approved systems
Use information solely for invoicing
Destroy obtained records within 24 hours of payment
Misuse is a third‑degree misdemeanor with a $500 fine per violation.
4. PennDOT Oversight and Audits
PennDOT will:
Publish compliance guidelines
Audit operators and agents
Terminate contracts for violations
This creates a standardized, accountable framework across the state.
What This Means for the Industry
This law brings Pennsylvania in line with best practices already used in other states and private parking markets. The benefits include:
Improved fee recovery
Reduced confrontations and on‑site disputes
Clearer communication with customers
Higher compliance and professionalism across the industry
Better protection of driver data
For operators who already use digital enforcement tools, the transition will be straightforward. For smaller lots or new operators, this is an opportunity to modernize operations and adopt standardized practices.
Preparing for July 1, 2027
Parking operators should begin planning now. Key steps include:
Reviewing and updating lot signage
Establishing or updating enforcement policies
Identifying a compliant agent or vendor
Preparing for PennDOT’s contract and affidavit process
Training staff on data‑handling and privacy requirements
The Parking & Transportation Association of Pennsylvania (PTAP) will continue to provide updates, guidance, and best‑practice resources as PennDOT releases its official guidelines.
A More Transparent Future for Parking in Pennsylvania
PA House Bill 1862 marks a turning point for private parking operations statewide. By balancing operator needs with strong consumer protections, the law creates a fair, modern, and accountable system that benefits everyone who uses or manages private parking facilities.