To avoid late fees, a motorist has 21 days to pay or formally contest a parking citation. After 21 days, a late fee will be added to unpaid tickets. Also, failure to pay the initial fine and penalty or contest the violation within 21 days of the issuance of the late penalty will result in a final determination, at which time the amount due will again increase.

Payment of the fine and any applicable penalty operates as a final disposition of the violation. In addition to fines and late fees, failure to pay a parking citation also can result in driver's license suspension or vehicle immobilization with a wheel-locking device. When payment is received by the City – not when it is mailed– determines the payment date.

Pay By Mail

  • Make check or money order payable to the "City of Crystal Lake".
  • Write the ticket number(s) on the front of your check or money order to avoid delays that could result in additional late fees.
  • Tear off the payment portion of your citation notice and return it with your payment and mail to: City of Crystal Lake, 100 W Woodstock St, Crystal Lake, IL 60014.
  • Your canceled check is your receipt. Do not mail cash or credit card information as payment.

Pay Online

To pay on-line with a MasterCard or Visa click this link. A fee will be assessed. All credit/debit card transactions are subject to a service fee.  Fees are remitted directly to the City’s payment processing agent.  

Pay In Person

To pay in person, cash, check or money order only, during regular business hours, bring your violation notice to the Crystal Lake Police Department at 100 W. Woodstock Street. All credit/debit card transactions are subject to a service fee.  Fees are remitted directly to the City’s payment processing agent.  

Pay Via Dropbox

To pay at the “drop box”, located at City Hall, 100 W. Woodstock Street:

  • Make your check or money order payable to the "City of Crystal Lake".
  • Write the ticket number(s) on the front of your check or money order to avoid delays that could result in additional late fees.
  • Tear off the payment portion of your citation notice and deposit it along with your payment in the drop box.
  • Your canceled check is your receipt. Do not mail cash or credit card information as payment.