Parking around Mosques during Ramadan

Supporting safe, respectful and community-minded parking this Ramadan Parking around Mosques during Ramadan

Ramadan is a meaningful time for many Calgarians. Mosques welcome larger evening crowds for prayers, Iftar gatherings, Taraweeh and the final 10 days of worship. With more people coming together, parking activity around mosques increases — especially just before sunset and into the late evening.

Our goal is to help everyone arrive safely, park legally and keep surrounding neighbourhoods accessible for residents, visitors and worshippers. By following a few parking safety guidelines, you can keep traffic moving, reduce congestion and create a safer, more welcoming experience for all.

This page offers clear, practical guidance about what to expect during Ramadan and Eid — what changes, what stays the same and how to avoid common issues that can lead to congestion, blocked access and illegal parking.

What to expect during Ramadan

Mosques and nearby streets become busier during key times. You may notice:

  • More vehicles arriving around sunset and after Iftar, as worshippers get around the city from home to the mosque
  • Short-term stopping for drop-offs, especially for elders, families and those with mobility needs
  • Increased foot traffic, including families crossing between parking spaces, sidewalks and prayer areas
  • More activity in adjacent streets, alleys and residential areas, especially where parking is limited
  • On-site support from Calgary Parking and Calgary Police Service, helping manage flow and address urgent safety concerns

Even during peak times, the goal remains the same: support safe movement, reduce congestion and make sure everyone can access the area respectfully.

Important parking reminders

  • Leave 5 metres around fire hydrants: This gives fire crews quick access and protects families, homes, and businesses in an emergency
  • Do not block lanes, alleys or driveways: Blocking these spaces prevents residents from coming and going, delays emergency vehicles and causes unnecessary conflict
  • Do not stop or park in No Parking / No Stopping zones: “No stopping” means zero stopping, even for quick drop‑offs. These areas exist to protect sightlines, transit zones, crosswalks or emergency routes
  • Respect Residential Parking Zones (RPZs): Unless relaxations are officially signed, residents must still be able to park safely near their homes
  • Use legal stopping areas for drop‑offs and pick‑ups: Stopping in the middle of the road or double parking is unsafe and slows everyone down. Quick, legal stopping improves flow around mosques
  • Do not park too close to crosswalks, intersections or stop signs: Stopping too close to these areas reduces visibility for drivers and pedestrians
  • Check the signs every time: Many streets change rules depending on the day, time, direction or season. If you check signs before leaving your car, you will avoid most situations that lead to parking tickets being issued

On-street parking & overflow options

If on‑site lots fill up:

  • Check your mosque’s recommended overflow options
  • Use nearby ParkPlus zones and enjoy a short walk
  • Avoid school zones, business access lanes and private lots unless officially designated as overflow
  • Obey all signs, even when you’re in a hurry — it keeps frustration down for everyone

Some mosques post maps or guidance on their websites or WhatsApp groups. These can help you plan before heading out.

Parking relaxations during Ramadan & Eid

  • Most parking rules stay the same during Ramadan and Eid.  Some Mosques may work with The City and the local community to allow temporary changes during busy prayer times — but these changes are only valid when they are clearly marked.
  • You will know a relaxation is in place if you see:
    • Official temporary signs
    • City of Calgary or Calgary Police Service staff directing parking
    • Coned‑off, barricaded or specially marked areas
    • If you don’t see signs or staff, relaxations are not active. To avoid a ticket, always follow regular parking rules unless you are told otherwise.

What if I receive a parking ticket?

Sometimes, unsafe or illegal parking results in a ticket, even with an education‑first approach. If that happens, you can now use fast, flexible online payment options, including:

  • Apple Pay
  • Google Pay
  • Credit card

This makes resolving a ticket simple and convenient.

If you believe the ticket was issued incorrectly

If you think your ticket was issued in error, you can request a review.

  • Submit your appeal online
  • Fees are paused while the appeal is under review
  • You’ll be notified once the review is complete

Appealing is easy, and our team looks at each case fairly.

Tips for busy evenings

A few simple habits can make a big difference during peak Ramadan nights:

  • Come a little earlier to avoid last‑minute pressure
  • Carpool with family or friends, especially for nightly prayers
  • Use transit when possible on high‑traffic nights
  • Park a short walk away in nearby ParkPlus zones
  • Follow the guidance of staff or volunteers you see on site

These small changes help keep roads clear, reduce circling and support a calm atmosphere around mosques.

Being a good neighbour during Ramadan

Mosques are often located around residential communities. Your parking choices can help maintain good relationships and respect for neighbours.

  • Keep noise down during late‑night arrivals and departures
  • Avoid idling in front of homes or blocking driveways
  • Leave extra space when parking on narrow roads
  • Keep sidewalks and crosswalks clear for pedestrians and children
  • Turn headlights down when parking on residential streets

A little courtesy goes a long way.

How we support mosques and communities

Each year, we work closely with mosques and community partners to support a safe and welcoming Ramadan. This includes:

  • Providing clear parking guidelines
  • Coordinating with mosque leaders and volunteers to monitor busy nights
  • Supporting traffic flow with the Calgary Police Service when needed

Need help or more information?

If you have questions, please contact us by calling 403-537-7000 or sending an email to parking@calgary.ca