Maximum parking rates?

Question

Alright this is a pretty stupid question, but when looking at parking rates, is the daily maximum the maximum time that you can spend in that parking lot? Or does it mean that if you pay the maximum rate, that you don't have to worry about paying for the rest of the hours that you stay there?

For instance if the rate is $1.75 an hour, and the maximum is $12 for 7am-6pm, does that mean you could pay $12 at 7 am and it would last you until 6pm?

Answer 1

The posted maximum is the maximum they charge you.  So, to make it simple, let's suppose it's $1 per hour, with a maximum of $5.  After 5 hours, all you pay is $5 (even if you're there for 10 hours).

When you enter a parking lot/structure, you'll get a time-stamped ticket.  The parking attendant will use that time to calculate how much to charge you.  Some lots in my area will either charge a flat rate or charge the maximum.  I've always stayed past the maximum, so I don't know if you get a refund if you leave early.

Just remember to leave before the lot/structure closes, or else you'll pay for more than the maximum.

If there is no posted maximum, they can keep charging you.  That's why some places here can charge more than $36.  These places are for locations where they expect you to only stick around for a very short time.