of contested cases are dismissed outright — and 37.6% end dismissed or reduced. From 1,100,837 decided hearings in the city's own records.
Is it worth fighting?
Dismissal runs ~14% — the city defends these hard. The winnable cases: you can PROVE the distance was 15+ feet (photograph with measurement), the hydrant was defunct/capped, or someone was at the wheel ready to move (permitted while attended in a licensed context — argue with care).
What actually wins
Measured distance ≥ 15 feet — photograph with a tape measure or countable sidewalk flags
Hydrant out of service/capped/buried (photograph)
A licensed driver remained at the wheel ready to move (NYC rule permits attended standing at hydrants during daytime — check current wording)
Defective ticket details
Evidence to gather
Distance photos with measurable reference
Wide shots showing vehicle + hydrant
Photos of hydrant condition
Fighting it is free. New York lets you dispute online, by mail, or in person — no fee, no lawyer required, decision from a hearing officer. Start at nyc.gov → Dispute a ticket. Check the response deadline printed on your ticket, and answer before it to avoid late penalties.