Abstract: An electronic timing meter device that can receive an infrared (“IR”) communication signal from a remote control device operated, for example, by a vehicle owner. This IR remote device transmits information about the user and contains an identification code that is specific to that user. The identification code and possibly other user information is received by the timing meter device and stored in the computer memory of the timing meter device. Upon receipt of the code and other information from the user, the electronic timing meter device starts the counter to record the length of time the user is parked.