Parking in Edmonton is undergoing a significant transformation. Until recently, people could park on the street, walk up to a physical parking meter, insert coins or a credit card, and pay for their parking. However, in 2025, the city of Edmonton completely removed all physical parking meters from the streets, replacing them with a fully digital and mobile payment system. This means that today, in order to park in downtown Edmonton or other commercial areas of the city, you need to use a mobile app called HotSpot Parking or the HotSpot website.
For many people, especially those who are more accustomed to physical parking meters or the old MyEPark mobile app, switching to HotSpot Parking may seem difficult and confusing. However, with the right information and practice, paying for parking via a mobile app in Edmonton is actually a very simple and quick process. This article will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to pay for parking via the HotSpot Parking App in Edmonton, including tips, frequently asked questions, and troubleshooting.
What is the HotSpot Parking App and why did it replace MyEPark
Before you start using the HotSpot Parking App, it's important to understand what it is and why the city of Edmonton decided to use this app instead of the previous one.
HotSpot Parking Corp: the company that manages the system
HotSpot Parking is a mobile app developed by HotSpot Parking Inc., a product of the design firm Arcadis. In 2024, the city of Edmonton chose HotSpot Parking as its new parking management platform, signing a four-year contract worth $2.5 million. This decision was made after more than ten years of working with the previous MyEPark system, managed by Calgary Parking.
Why the system was changed
There were several reasons for switching to the new application. First, the old MyEPark system was outdated and not technically compatible with modern payment standards. The old physical parking meters only accepted magnetic stripe credit cards, not modern chip-and-PIN cards. Upgrading this system would have cost the city approximately $2.8 million in capital expenditures, not including additional operating costs.
Second, the new HotSpot Parking system offers a more flexible payment model — “pay-as-you-go” — which means that users only pay for the parking time they need. Unlike the old MyEPark system, which required a minimum balance of $25 on the account before use, HotSpot Parking allows users to pay only for the time they need.
Third, the City of Edmonton wanted to simplify the parking system and make it more accessible to modern users. Instead of having to mechanically insert coins or cards into a parking meter, people can now pay for parking directly from their smartphone, wherever they are.
Step 1: Download the HotSpot Parking App
The first step to paying for parking via a mobile app in Edmonton is to download the HotSpot Parking App to your smartphone.
Where to download the app
The HotSpot Parking App is available in two major app stores:
For Android devices: Download the app from Google Play. Simply open Google Play on your device, search for “HotSpot Parking,” and click the “Install” button.
For iOS devices (iPhone, iPad): Download the app from the Apple App Store. Just open the App Store on your device, search for “HotSpot Parking,” and tap the ‘Get’ or “Cloud” button (depending on your iOS version), then confirm the download.
Size and requirements
The HotSpot Parking App is a standard size, typically less than 50 MB on most devices. The app is compatible with most modern smartphones, including Android 5.0 and above and iOS 11 and above. If you have an older device, the app may not be compatible, but this is rare in today's world.
Alternative: Website instead of app
If you don't have a smartphone or don't want to download the app for any reason, you can also pay for parking through the HotSpot website at htsp.ca/ed. The process on the website is very similar to the process in the app, although using the mobile app is often more convenient.
Step 2: Create a HotSpot Parking account
Once you have downloaded the app, the next step is to create an account.
Opening the app
Once you have downloaded the HotSpot Parking App, tap on the app icon on your smartphone screen to open it. When you first launch the app, it will show you a welcome screen and prompt you to download a video with instructions on how to set up your account.
Filling out the registration form
The app will ask you to fill out a registration form with the following information:
Name: Enter your full name as it appears on your credit card.
Email address: Enter an active email address that you check frequently. All communications from HotSpot, including parking receipts and account updates, will be sent to this address.
Password: Create a strong password. HotSpot generally recommends a password that is at least 8 characters long and contains both letters and numbers. Remember this password, as you will need it to log in in the future.
Phone Number (optional): HotSpot typically offers the option to enter a phone number for added security and password reset capabilities. This is not required, but it is recommended.
Entering Payment Card Information
After filling out the basic information, the app will ask you to enter your payment card information. HotSpot Parking accepts major credit cards:
Visa: Enter your card number, expiration date (MM/YY), and CVV code (the three digits on the back of your card).
Mastercard: Enter the same information as for Visa.
Debit cards: HotSpot also accepts most debit cards if they have a Visa or Mastercard function.
It is important to understand that payment card information is stored securely on HotSpot's servers and is not shared with other organizations. HotSpot uses standard SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption to protect all payment card information.
Pay-as-you-go model
One of the most important features of HotSpot Parking is its pay-as-you-go payment model. Unlike the old MyEPark system, which required a minimum balance of $25 on your account, HotSpot Parking does not require a prepaid balance. Instead, the system automatically charges your credit card for parking when you use it. This means you don't have to worry about your account balance—you only pay for the parking time you need.
Step 3: Preparing to park
Before you park, there are a few things you need to know and prepare.
Finding the parking zone number
One of the most important pieces of information for paying for parking in Edmonton is the parking zone number. The zone number is a unique identifier for each parking space or block of parking spaces.
How to find the zone number
The zone number is located on signs on the street within the parking block. However, the signs are often small and can be easily missed, especially if you are parking in a particular location for the first time.
The easiest way to find the zone number is to scan the QR code on the new HotSpot alarm located on the road near the parking space. When you scan the QR code with your smartphone camera, it will automatically open the HotSpot web page or app with the zone number already filled in. This makes the process much easier than having to manually search for the zone number.
Alternatively, you can use the HotSpot App map, which shows all available parking zones with color coding indicating how many spaces are available in each zone.
Remembering your license plate number
Another important piece of information you need is your license plate number. The HotSpot system uses the plate number to link the parking session to your vehicle. This means that law enforcement can determine that you have paid for parking by scanning your license plate with special equipment.
However, if you park frequently through HotSpot, it is recommended that you save your license plate numbers in the app. Most mobile parking apps have a feature that allows you to save one or more license plates so you don't have to enter them every time you park. This saves time and reduces the likelihood of entering the wrong plate number.
Step 4: Paying for parking with the HotSpot App — a step-by-step process
Now let's take a look at the detailed step-by-step process for paying for parking with the HotSpot Parking App.
Step 4.1: Park in an EPark zone
First, make sure you park in one of the authorized EPark zones in Edmonton. Parking in EPark zones is allowed on downtown streets, in some commercial areas, and in some municipal parking garages. If you park in a private parking garage (managed by companies such as Impark or Vibe Parking), the EPark system does not apply.
Step 4.2: Open the HotSpot Parking App
Once you have parked, open the HotSpot Parking App on your smartphone. The app will start loading and then show you the home screen with several options.
Step 4.3: Tap “Park Now” or ‘Parking’
On the app's home screen, you should see a button labeled “Park Now” or “Parking”. Tap this button to start a new parking session.
Step 4.4: Select or enter the parking zone number
The app will now ask you to select or enter the parking zone number. As mentioned above, there are several ways to do this:
Scan the QR code (the easiest method): If you see a HotSpot sign with a QR code near your parking space, tap the “Scan QR Code” button in the app, then scan the code with your smartphone camera. The zone number will be filled in automatically.
Entering the zone number manually: If you are unable to scan the QR code or it is not visible, tap the zone number entry field and enter the number you found on the street signs.
Using the map: If you are unsure of the zone number, tap the “Show Map” button in the app to see a map of all available parking zones color-coded. Selecting a zone on the map will automatically fill in the zone number.
Step 4.5: Enter your license plate number
After entering the zone number, the app will ask you to enter your license plate number. Enter the plate number exactly as it appears on your car, without spaces or special characters (unless you have them on your plate).
If you have previously saved your plate number in your profile, the app may automatically fill in this field for you. In this case, you can simply check that the number is correct and proceed.
Step 4.6: Select your parking time
Next, the app will ask you to select how long you want to park. Usually, the app offers a choice of time in one-hour or half-hour increments (e.g., 30 minutes, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, 2 hours, etc.).
This is one of the most important steps, as you need to estimate how long you will be parking. However, it is important to understand that you can always extend your parking later if you stay longer than you planned. HotSpot allows you to extend your parking in 15-minute increments through the app.
It is also important to understand that the first 15 minutes of parking are completely free in all EPark zones. Therefore, if you park for only 15 minutes, you will not pay anything.
Step 4.7: Check the cost
Before confirming your parking, the app will show you the calculated parking cost. This amount depends on the time you selected and the current rates for that zone and time of day.
For example, if you park for 2 hours in the city center during the day (from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays), the cost will be around $7.00 (2 hours × $3.50 per hour, including the first 15 minutes free).
Step 4.8: Tap “Park” or “Confirm” to confirm
Once you are sure of the information, press the “Park” or “Confirm” button. This is very important — some users have reported receiving parking tickets because they forgot to press the confirmation button twice and the parking session was not started correctly.
Step 4.9: Save the link to your parking session
After confirmation, the app will show you a link to your parking session, which includes detailed information about your session (zone number, end time, cost, etc.). It is recommended that you copy this information or take a screenshot for your records. In addition, it is good to be able to receive an email receipt, which most parking apps offer at the end of the session.
Step 5: Extend your parking if necessary
However, if you find that you need more parking time than you originally planned, you can easily extend your parking through the app.
How to extend your parking
To extend your parking, simply open the HotSpot App and go to “Active Sessions” or “My Parking.” Here you should see your current parking session showing the time remaining.
Tap on the active parking session and you will see the “Extend” option. Tap on this button and select how much extra time you need (usually in 15-minute increments). The app will calculate the additional cost and add it to your payment.
Extension restrictions
It is important to understand that there are some restrictions on parking extensions:
Active session: You can only extend your parking if the parking session is still active. If your parking time has already expired, you cannot extend it—you will need to start a new parking session.
Maximum parking time: Some parking zones have a maximum parking time (for example, a 2-hour limit in the city center from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM on weekdays). If you have already parked for the maximum allowed time, you will not be able to extend your parking.
Alternative ways to pay for parking
In addition to the HotSpot Parking mobile app, there are other ways to pay for parking in Edmonton.
Paying via the HotSpot website
If you don't have the mobile app or prefer to use a website, you can pay for parking via the HotSpot website at htsp.ca/ed. The process is very similar to the app—enter the zone number, plate number, parking time, and payment information.
Scanning the QR code on the street
The easiest way to pay for parking for people without an account is to simply scan the QR code on the new HotSpot alarm on the road near the parking space. Scanning the QR code opens the HotSpot web page, where you can pay for parking immediately without having to create an account.
Pay by phone
For people who already have a HotSpot account, you can also pay for parking by calling 1-855-712-5888 and asking the operator to start a parking session on your behalf. However, it is important to understand that the operator requires you to already have an account with your payment card information in the system — the operator cannot accept credit card information over the phone for security reasons.
Understanding rates and costs
It is important to understand EPark rates in Edmonton in order to correctly calculate the cost of parking.
Basic rates
Daytime (8:00 AM - 4:00 PM on weekdays): Parking in most areas costs approximately $3.50 per hour, but in some of the most popular areas, it costs around $4.50 per hour.
Evening (4:00 PM - 9:00 PM on weekdays): Parking costs approximately $2.50 per hour or less.
Weekends: Parking is also cheaper than on weekdays during daytime hours.
Daily maximum: Even if you park all day, you won't pay more than about $20 per day.
First 15 minutes free: In all EPark zones, the first 15 minutes are completely free.
Frequently asked questions and troubleshooting
Q: Will I get my money back if I park for less time than I paid for? A: No. According to HotSpot Parking's policy, any unused time from a parking session is non-refundable. This means that if you paid for 2 hours of parking but only park for 1 hour, you will lose the payment for 1 hour. Therefore, it is important to extend your parking if you see that you need more time, rather than waiting for the parking time to expire.
Q: I received a parking ticket even though I thought I had paid for parking. What should I do? A: This can happen for several reasons:
- Incorrect license plate number: You may have entered the wrong license plate number when paying for parking. The system uses the license plate number to identify your car, so an incorrect number means that the system does not know that you have paid.
- Parking time expired: You may have parked after your paid parking time expired.
- Parking session was not started correctly: You may have forgotten to press the “Confirm” button in the app, which means that the parking session was not actually started.
If you believe you have paid for parking, keep your ticket and contact HotSpot Parking to resolve the issue. HotSpot keeps a history of all parking sessions, so they can verify that you have indeed paid.
Q: The app does not recognize my location. How do I find my zone number? A: This is one of the most frequently reported issues with the HotSpot App. If the app does not recognize your location, try one of these methods:
- Scan the QR code: The easiest way is to scan the QR code on the new HotSpot sign near your parking spot.
- Check the map: Use the map feature in the app to find your location and select your parking zone.
- Enter the zone number manually: If you can find the zone number on street signs, enter it manually in the app.
Q: Is my credit card information secure with HotSpot Parking? A: Yes. HotSpot Parking uses standard SSL (Secure Socket Layer) encryption to protect all payment card information. In addition, the company complies with all PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) standards, which guarantee the security of payment card information. Payment card information is not shared with third parties without your permission.
Q: How do I contact HotSpot support if I have a problem? A: You can contact HotSpot Parking in several ways:
- Phone: 1-855-712-5888
- Email: [email protected]
- Online chat: There is an online support form on the HotSpot Parking website.
HotSpot offers 24/7 support in English.
Tips for effective use of the HotSpot Parking App
To maximize the benefits of the HotSpot Parking App, consider these tips:
Save your license plate numbers
If you have multiple vehicles or park frequently, save your license plate numbers in the app under “Manage My Vehicles.” This will allow you to pay for parking faster, as your license plate number will be filled in automatically.
Keep track of your active parking sessions
Always check your active parking sessions in the app to make sure you have enough time to park. If you notice that your time is running out sooner than you planned, extend your parking as early as possible.
Receive receipts by email
For most parking sessions, HotSpot offers the option to receive a receipt by email. This is useful for your records and in case you need to dispute a parking ticket.
Use the first 15 minutes for free
If you need a few minutes of parking for a quick errand (like grabbing coffee), park through HotSpot and return within 15 minutes to take advantage of free parking.
Extend your parking in 15-minute increments
HotSpot allows you to extend your parking in 15-minute increments only. Instead of extending for a full hour if you only need 20 extra minutes, extend for 30 minutes (two 15-minute increments) for greater accuracy.
Conclusion: Mobile parking as the new norm in Edmonton
Paying for parking via a mobile app in Edmonton is the new normal, and while it may seem complicated at first, the process is very simple once you understand the basic steps. After downloading the HotSpot Parking App, creating an account, entering the zone number, plate number, and parking time, you will need to select the parking time and confirm the payment.
The key to successfully using HotSpot Parking is understanding the basic steps of the process, understanding EPark rates, and utilizing all available features such as parking extensions, saving plate numbers, and scanning QR codes. With this information and practice, paying for parking in downtown Edmonton will become a simple and quick process, allowing you to focus on the real reason for your visit to the city center rather than worrying about parking.