Commuter and Parking Services

There are several ways to avoid getting a ticket. Just remember that:

• all on-campus parking is permit restricted, except in metered areas and most time-zone areas.
• many central campus parking lots have permit restrictions that extend into evenings and weekends.
• residence hall parking lots and other designated areas are restricted to permit holders 24/7.
  
• permit restrictions in some areas of campus are in effect only Monday - Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and are available for non-permit parking on evenings and weekends.
  
• campus parking lots include a few spaces, such as handicap, maintenance and special reserved spaces, that are posted as restricted at all times.
• Always look for signs to be sure you are not in a restricted area.
  

Here are the most frequent reasons folks give for parking illegally.

If these examples fit your situation, you may want to consider doing something different next time you park. 

But I had my flashers on.

Unfortunately, illegal parking is illegal parking. Whether or not your flashers are on, if your car’s there and you’re not—you’re parked. For short-term parking consider using a metered area. If you’re loading or delivering items, you may be eligible to purchase a loading permit. For assistance in finding a legal parking option, stop at one of the information and parking booths.  

I didn’t know the restrictions.

As a general rule, parking on campus is restricted to permit holders. Parking regulations and permit requirements vary; restrictions are posted at the entrance to each lot. Anytime you park, look for signs and read them carefully to be sure that you are not violating the posted regulations. If you are unsure of the restrictions for an area where you want to park, contact our office or stop at a booth.  

There was no sign that said I couldn’t park.

Parking on campus is regulated by permits or parking meters. Restrictions are posted at the entrance to most lots. Unless you see a sign that specifically says you may park in a space or lot, you may not legally park there.   

I have a permit, but it was in the other car.

Logistically, it’s nearly impossible to check to see if a permit has been issued for every vehicle in which none is displayed, before writing a ticket. Please remember to switch your permit if you change cars (and be sure that car is listed on the permit). If you forget, stop at our office or at an information and parking booth and get a temporary permit for the day.  

I was on official university business.

No matter what the purpose is for your trip on campus, you must park legally. The registered owner of a car (or the driver, in the case of university-owned vehicles) will be held responsible for any parking tickets. It is against university policy to use university funds to pay parking tickets.