A new year means a new way to purchase 2015 parking permits in Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Every year we see dozens line up to purchase parking permits for the city of Milwaukee -- many more this year are opting to buy online.

One New Year's Eve, Wendy Hassel waited for the ball to drop in Times Square. On New Year's Day, Hassel is waiting in line. It was almost out the door at Milwaukee Police District 2 headquarters. It's one of several places throughout the city where you can purchase a 2015 overnight parking permit.

"I'm surprised it's not longer seeing that we waited so long," said Hassel.

The passes went up for sale on December 20th, and take effect on the 1st. But the hustle and bustle of the holidays kept folks like Hassel from buying them earlier.

"You can get your permits online now," said Phyllis Duckhorn, kiosk assistant for Department of Public Works.

Duckhorn is pretty lonely in the MPD District 5 lobby. Word seems to have caught on that you can purchase permits from the comfort of your own home.

"We used to have really long lines and there hasn't been anything like that this year," said Duckhorn.

For those lucky enough to find a parking spot in the first place. The common goal many motorists share is avoiding getting a parking ticket on their windshield. One ticket will set you back the same amount as a four-month permit.

There are no physical permits issued by the city anymore. Your license plate is now your permit.

Parking enforcement officers scan the plate to determine if a valid permit has been purchased.

The following details have been released by the city of Milwaukee regarding parking permits:

City of Milwaukee residents who wish to park their vehicles overnight on city streets can now buy their 2015 virtual parking permits. Annual and 4-month permits became available Saturday, December 20, 2014.

When residents buy the annual or 4-month overnight permit, there is no physical sticker for their vehicles. Instead, purchasers will receive a confirmation number, and their license plate becomes their permit. Parking enforcement officers scan the license plates of cars parked overnight on city streets to determine if a valid parking permit has been purchased.

How to purchase a new 2015 overnight permit:

Purchase online at www.milwaukee.gov/parking using a MasterCard or VISA debit/credit card. This is the most convenient way to buy an overnight permit – no standing in line to pay in person. There is a $1 convenience fee to purchase a permit online.

Purchase at all 7 Milwaukee Police Department district locations. Kiosks at Districts #2 - #7 accept cash, MasterCard and VISA.

Purchase at all 3 Violation Bureau payment sites – Cash, MasterCard and Visa accepted

How much?

Because the license plate becomes the permit, residents are reminded to use their correct license plate information when purchasing.