Will AI Replace Parking Enforcement Workers?

Enter and retrieve information pertaining to vehicle registration, identification, and status, using hand-held computers.

information retrieval — Database queries for investigation details

Maintain close communications with dispatching personnel, using two-way radios or cell phones.

interpersonal — Live radio relay of incidents is real-time human

Patrol an assigned area by vehicle or on foot to ensure public compliance with existing parking ordinance.

situated mobility — Patrolling properties is embodied mobile work

Identify vehicles in violation of parking codes, checking with dispatchers when necessary to confirm identities or to determine whether vehicles need to be booted or towed.

text generation — Relaying situation details is structured communication

Write warnings and citations for illegally parked vehicles.

decision support — Citations require on-scene judgment and legal authority

Appear in court at hearings regarding contested traffic citations.

interpersonal — Testimony carries legal accountability and live presence

Maintain assigned equipment and supplies, such as hand-held citation computers, citation books, rain gear, tire-marking chalk, and street cones.

data analysis — Supply inventory tracking and reorder largely automatable

Respond to and make radio dispatch calls regarding parking violations and complaints.

interpersonal — Live radio relay of incidents is real-time human

Provide information to the public regarding parking regulations and facilities, and the location of streets, buildings and points of interest.

interpersonal — Public communication needs accountability and audience trust

Make arrangements for illegally parked or abandoned vehicles to be towed, and direct tow-truck drivers to the correct vehicles.

text generation — Relaying situation details is structured communication

Observe and report hazardous conditions, such as missing traffic signals or signs, and street markings that need to be repainted.

visual inspection — Environmental hazard detection needs physical sensors

Perform simple vehicle maintenance procedures, such as checking oil and gas, and report mechanical problems to supervisors.

text generation — Relaying situation details is structured communication

Mark tires of parked vehicles with chalk and record time of marking, and return at regular intervals to ensure that parking time limits are not exceeded.

information retrieval — GPS/telematics tracking is digital; exceptions need human handling

Prepare and maintain required records, including logs of parking enforcement activities, and records of contested citations.

data analysis — Maintain operational records in structured systems

Investigate and answer complaints regarding contested parking citations, determining their validity and routing them appropriately.

interpersonal — Relaying information needs real-time human channel

Perform traffic control duties such as setting up barricades and temporary signs, placing bags on parking meters to limit their use, or directing traffic or pedestrians.

physical manipulation — Physically blocking access to areas

Train new or temporary staff.

interpersonal — Live instruction and hands-on coaching require human presence

Locate lost, stolen, and counterfeit parking permits, and take necessary enforcement action.

visual inspection — Spotting suspicious objects needs physical visual search

Provide assistance to motorists needing help with problems, such as flat tires, keys locked in cars, or dead batteries.

situated mobility — Roadside physical assistance in unpredictable settings

Assign and review the work of subordinates.

decision support — Performance review aided; accountability and context human