If you've ever come back to your car and found a suspicious parking citation tucked under your windshield wiper, you’re not alone—and you’re not crazy to question it. More and more consumers, including Atlanta-area residents, are reporting “parking violation” notices that don’t come from the city or law enforcement, but from private companies acting like they have authority they simply don’t.

One viewer, Christine, reached out after receiving a parking notice from a company called Professional Parking Management. Her dispute was denied, and she discovered there was no real way to contact the company unless she wanted to pay by phone. That’s not just frustrating—it’s a serious red flag.

So what are your rights in situations like this? And how do you know if the ticket on your car is even legitimate?

When Private Companies Pose as Authorities

Let’s start with the company in question: Professional Parking Management, based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This outfit has racked up more than 1,500 consumer complaints and currently holds an F rating from the Better Business Bureau. Most of those complaints come from people who say they paid for parking but still received a ticket—or never received confirmation of payment at all.

Adding to the shady vibe? The company’s listed address is a rented mailbox service. Not exactly the image of a transparent, consumer-facing business. It’s also been named in at least three class-action lawsuits (Davis v. PPM, Santi v. PPM, Remy v. PPM)  over its questionable practices, and officials in Broward County, Florida, have banned companies like this one from issuing official-looking citations that mimic government-issued parking tickets.

Despite all this, similar companies continue to operate in cities across the country, including Atlanta, often targeting lots near popular venues, private campuses, and commercial centers.

Is It Legal for a Private Company to Issue a Ticket?

Here’s where things get tricky: Yes, private parking companies can issue citations, but they’re not the same as tickets from a city or municipality. That means:

  • You won’t get arrested for not paying one.
  • There’s no government enforcement behind it.
  • It’s essentially a civil demand—not a legal fine.

However, if you ignore it, the company might turn the “debt” over to a collection agency. While this won’t land you in jail, it can affect your credit score depending on the agency’s reporting practices. That’s why many people feel stuck between paying a potentially bogus ticket or risking a financial headache.

So, what can you actually do if you’re in Christine’s shoes?

How to Protect Yourself—and Push Back

If you suspect you’ve received a scam parking ticket, don’t rush to pay it. Here’s a step-by-step guide to handling the situation:

  1. Double-check who issued the ticket.
     Look for logos or names. If it's not from your local government (e.g., the City of Atlanta or a campus police department), it’s likely a private company.
  2. Research the company.
     Search the business name on the Better Business Bureau website, or check for complaints via your state’s attorney general’s office. A poor track record is usually easy to find.
  3. Document everything.
     Take photos of the ticket, the signage where you parked, and your proof of payment (if you paid). Keep emails or digital receipts
  4. Dispute the ticket in writing.
     Even if the company makes it difficult, try to file a formal dispute. Save copies of everything you send. If the company doesn’t provide a legitimate appeal process, that’s further evidence of bad faith.
  5. Report suspicious tickets.
     File a complaint with the Georgia Department of Law Consumer Protection Division and consider notifying your local media or consumer advocate. Public exposure can pressure shady companies into backing off.
  6. Know your credit rights.
     If you’re contacted by a debt collector, remember they must abide by the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act. You have the right to request verification of the debt—and to dispute it.

Final Thoughts: Knowledge Is Your Best Defense

Private parking companies are increasingly pushing the limits of legality, often relying on the average consumer’s confusion or fear to collect payments they may not deserve. You don’t have to fall for it.

If you  want to make sure you're only doing business with reputable, vetted companies—especially when it comes to legal matters or payment disputes—check out the TrustDALE.com network of certified partners. We investigate every company we recommend, so you don’t have to worry about being scammed.

And remember: If a company won’t give you a straight answer unless you pay them first, they’ve already told you everything you need to know.

Have you received a questionable parking ticket in Atlanta? Share your experience or tips in the comments—your insight could help another consumer avoid a costly mistake.