DC 3-Year Limitation on Civil Enforcement of Parking Debt
Civil parking citations in DC are subject to the general 3-year statute of limitations under DC Code §12-301(8). While the District can place DMV registration holds, it cannot pursue civil court collection on a citation older than 3 years from default unless a tolling event occurred. This is most commonly used to push DC to drop holds on ancient debt at registration renewal.
Legal basis
DC Code §12-301(8) (3-year SOL on actions on a simple contract or other simple obligation); DC Code §50-2303.04 (administrative finality); DC Code §50-2302.06
Sample appeal wording
[DATE] DC DMV / DC Office of Tax and Revenue CC: DC OAG Civil Division RE: Statute of Limitations Defense - NOI(s) #[LIST] from [DATES] I assert the statute of limitations as a complete defense to the NOI(s) referenced above. Under DC Code §12-301(8), civil obligations are subject to a 3-year limitations period. The NOI(s) at issue were issued in [YEAR/DATES], more than 3 years before this letter. To my knowledge, the District has not commenced timely judicial collection within the period. While DC may flag DMV registration, the flag does not toll the underlying limitations period. I request: 1. Removal of any DMV holds tied to these NOIs 2. Written acknowledgment that the NOIs are uncollectable 3. If disputed, documentation of any tolling action within the limitations period If relief is not granted within 30 days, I will pursue declaratory relief. Sincerely, [NAME]
Replace [PARKING DATE], [NtK DATE] etc. with your own dates before sending.
Beat It writes this argument automatically
Scan your PCN — our AI checks if this ground applies to your specific ticket, drafts a properly-cited appeal letter, and submits it to the council on your behalf. Only pay if you win.
Scan my ticketSources
- DC Code §12-301(8)
- DC Code §50-2303.04
- DC Code §50-2302.06