Mayor Brandon Johnson and The City of Chicago Launch Vehicle and Commercial Ticket Debt Relief Programs
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CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Announces Vehicle and Commercial Ticket Debt Relief Programs

In an effort to reform the city's outdated and punitive fines and fees system, Mayor Brandon Johnson and the City of Chicago have launched a new Vehicle and Commercial Ticket Debt Relief Programs. This bold step, set to begin on April 1, 2025, aims to provide economic relief for motorists and businesses with eligible ticket debt issued on or before December 31, 2023.

The Johnson administration's 2025 debt relief initiative includes two programs: the Vehicle Violation Debt Relief Program and the Commercial Driveway and Signs Violation Debt Relief Program. These programs reflect the administration's commitment to economic justice and creating fiscal systems that work for working people.

According to Mayor Johnson, "Too many working families in Chicago, especially in communities long overlooked and underinvested, have been trapped in cycles of ticket debt that grow faster than their ability to pay. This program gives people a path forward." By eliminating penalties and late fees, the City is offering real economic relief and demonstrating that it can be a partner in building financial stability rather than a barrier.

The Vehicle Violation Debt Relief Program includes non-meter parking tickets, standing violations (e.g., parked with the driver inside), compliance violations (e.g., expired registration or missing city sticker), as well as automated speed and red-light camera tickets. Only violations with a Notice of Final Determination issued on or before December 31, 2023 are eligible for this program. Additionally, tickets currently on payment plans are also eligible if paid in full by June 30, 2025.

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The program also waives seizure fees such as towing, storage, booting, vehicle immobilization device tampering, and bounced check penalties with limited exceptions. However, it specifically excludes expired parking meter violations and any violation where the City has filed a case in court or initiated administrative proceedings to collect the debt.

To support businesses and commercial property owners, the City has also included driveway and sign-related commercial violations in the Commercial Driveway and Signs Violation Debt Relief Program. During the debt relief period, Chicagoans may pay only the base fine in full to resolve their outstanding debt. However, if full payment is not completed by June 30, 2025, all previously waived penalties and fees will become due in full.

The Commercial Driveway and Sign Debt Relief Program includes violations for not paying required driveway permit fees, not securing a permit to use or build on the public way, and improper construction of a driveway over a sidewalk. These violations must have been issued and adjudicated before December 31, 2023, and fall under the City of Chicago Municipal Code Sections 10-20-390 through 10-20-450. To take advantage of this limited-time program, individuals can contact Heller & Frisone, Ltd. at (312) 236-3644.

Acting City Comptroller Joel Flores stated that "The Vehicle Violation Debt Relief and Commercial Driveway and Signs Violation Debt Relief Programs provide a path forward for both residents and businesses to resolve outstanding tickets at a significantly reduced rate and get a fresh start." He also encouraged all Chicagoans to visit www.Chicago.gov/VDR to learn more about each program and take advantage of these limited-time opportunities.

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In addition to these programs, the Office of the City Clerk is launching an amnesty program for City Stickers during the entire month of April. This program aims to make it easier for motorists to come into compliance with the City's Wheel Tax ordinance by waiving penalties. From April 1 through April 30, 2025, Chicagoans who drive, park, lease or own a vehicle can purchase a City Sticker with no late fees or back charges. It is mandatory for all Chicagoans to comply with the City's Wheel Tax by purchasing a Chicago City Sticker.

City Clerk Anna Valencia stated, "As the cost of basic necessities puts a strain on our families, it's important that we do what we can to give them a break. We know that when we give people a realistic path to get back on track - if we toss them a lifeline - they'll take it, so this is a win for residents and the City alike."

This new initiative by Mayor Johnson and the City of Chicago is a significant step towards creating a more fair and just system for all residents. It provides an opportunity for individuals and businesses to settle their outstanding ticket debt without incurring additional fees or penalties. For more information on these programs, visit www.Chicago.gov/VDR.

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