What is the “ParkPlus System” and how do I use it?

ParkPlus System is an intelligent parking system that replaced traditional parking meters in Calgary in 2007. It allows you to pay for parking via a mobile app, SMS, phone, or virtual terminals using license plate recognition (LPR) technology. Your car is identified by its license plate number, eliminating the need for a physical ticket.

Key components of ParkPlus

  1. MyParking mobile app:
  • Available for iOS and Android.
  • Features: start/stop parking, view balance, manage license plates.
  1. Virtual Parking Meters (VPM):
  1. Text and voice services:
  • Text “start” or “end” with the zone number to 77587 or call 403-537-PARK.
  1. Physical terminals:
  • Located on every block in ParkPlus zones.

How to use ParkPlus in Calgary: step-by-step guide

1. Register for an account

  1. Download the MyParking app or visit ParkPlus for Web.
  2. Add your vehicle license plates and credit card.
  3. Top up your balance (minimum $25 CAD).

2. Pay for parking

Through the MyParking app:

  1. Enter the 4-digit zone number (e.g., 8370 for Jubilee Auditorium).
  2. Select your parking time or activate automatic session termination.
  3. Confirm your payment.

Via a virtual parking meter (VPM):

  1. Scan the QR code in the parking area or open vpm.parkplus.ca.
  2. Enter the zone number, license plate number, and time.
  3. Pay with a credit card.

Via SMS or phone call:

  • Text “start [zone number]” to 77587 or call 403-537-PARK.

3. End your session

  • In the app, tap “End Session” and the system will automatically refund you for any unused time (except for the 30-minute minimum charge).

ParkPlus benefits

  • Save money: You only pay for the time you use (for example, instead of $6 for 2 hours, you pay $3.50 for 1.5 hours).
  • Credits for unused time: Automatic refunds to your account.
  • Multi-accounting: One account for the whole family (up to 5 license plates).
  • Exclusive offers: Discounts at local establishments when you activate a session.

Important details

  • Parking zones: Check the zone number on signs or in the app.
  • Fines: $40–75 CAD for non-payment. LPR cameras automatically scan license plates.
  • Guest parking: The “Park a Friend” feature is available in the app for residents.

Common problems and solutions

Problem Solution
“The app does not show my balance” Refresh the page or restart the app.

| “Transaction declined” | Check your card limits or contact your bank. | | “I can't end my session” | Text “end [zone number]” to 77587 or call 403-537-7000. |

Helpful tips

  • For tourists: Use VPM – no registration required.
  • Save time: Activate “Max Time” in the app to avoid inspections.
  • Parking during events: Special rates ($8 per event) are available at Jubilee Auditorium and SAIT.

2025 update

  • Tap-to-Pay: Physical terminals support touch payments.
  • Top-up from saved cards: Added the ability to top up your balance without re-entering your details.

ParkPlus makes parking in Calgary fast and flexible. Download the app, learn the zones, and forget about looking for coins!