Residential Parking Permits

Residential Parking Permits are Going Digital!

On May 9, 2017, Council approved changes to the Calgary Traffic Bylaw that allow the Residential Parking Permit (RPP) program to use electronic rather than physical permits. Click here to find out more.

Residential Parking Permits are Going Digital!

On May 9, 2017, Council approved changes to the Calgary Traffic Bylaw that allow the Residential Parking Permit (RPP) program to use electronic rather than physical permits. 

The framework of the program is not being changed and residents will not be asked to pay any new fees.

Starting on August 1, 2017, residential parking zones will be transitioned to the online RPP system as zones come up for renewal. With this new permit system, permits will be valid for two years instead of one. During this first year while the program is being rolled out, you will be asked to register for an online account (or contact us so we can set one up for you) during your regular renewal time. As per usual, we will mail you a reminder notice when you are eligible to renew your permit during this transition. 

Once your zone has moved to the online system, there will be no more physical residential or visitor parking permits. These permits will be managed using the online RPP system. Enforcement of the residential parking zones will be done primarily by photo enforcement and supplemented by our mobile enforcement officers who will respond to requests from residents via our Customer Solutions Centre. 

Benefits of the new RPP System include:

  • A quick and easy online permit application and renewal process for residents
  • A two-year renewal period: you no longer will have to renew on an annual basis, and if you have not moved after the two-year period, you won't have to submit new documentation when you request a permit renewal
  • More effective and efficient enforcement of residential parking zones
  • Permits are linked to license plates, which will eliminate lost or stolen permits

Detailed instructions for how to set up an online account and how to manage your residential and visitor permits in the online RPP system will be provided to residents in advance of their renewal date.

For frequently asked questions about the change to an online RPP system, please click here.

Residential Parking Permits

Some communities in Calgary require a residential parking permit. To find out if your community does, please click here. For information on Visitors Permits, click here.

Please note that not all addresses within the boundary of a zone are eligible for permits. Please call us at 403-537-7000 to confirm whether the address is able to receive a permit.

The fine for parking in a residential parking zone without displaying a valid permit is $75. Please read all posted signs for the zone specific restrictions in your area.

The Calgary Parking Authority issues residential parking permits and enforces their restrictions, but the City of Calgary establishes residential parking zones. Click here for information on how to establish a residential parking permit zone.

How much does a Residential Parking Permit Cost?

The first two Residential Parking Permits are issued at no cost. There is a $50 per year charge (plus GST) for the third and subsequent permits. The $50 fee came into effect on November 1, 2011 and is under Calgary Traffic Bylaw 26M96, section 20 (3)(a).

Two special permit areas exist in Bridgeland (Zone AAA) and Somerset (Zone YY). A $25 plus GST ($26.25) per year fee applies to the permits in these areas. One permit is issued per residence in a permit year.

How to Apply for a Residential Parking Permit

Where can I park with a Residential Parking Permit?

Residential parking permits allow you to park in residential parking zones and time-restricted parking zones. As long as you obey traffic bylaws, you may park anywhere in the restricted area or zone for which you have a permit.

They DO NOT allow vehicles to be parked in violation of safety or traffic flow restrictions. These include areas such as:

  • No parking zones;
  • No stopping zones;
  • Parking with 5 m of a fire hydrant;
  • Parking within 5 m of a crosswalk;
  • Designated handicap parking spaces; and
  • Any other posted parking restrictions.

Residential parking permits are also NOT VALID in ParkPlus zones. If you choose to park in a ParkPlus zone, please note payment is required. Please watch carefully for signs noting parking restrictions and ParkPlus zones to ensure you don't receive a parking ticket.

Can other people use my Residential Parking Permit?

Sorry, parking permits are issued to license plates registered to a specific address. They are not transferable and cannot be used in other restricted parking zones.

See other FAQs related to Residential Parking Permits.