Residents only parking zones frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply for a permit?
Residents living within a controlled parking zone or landlords who own a HMO property that is within a residential parking zone.
2. What types of permits are available?
-
residential permit – For residents with a vehicle. Issued to a specific vehicle.
No limit per property, except in Zone M (max 2). -
open permit – For short-term visitors. Not linked to a specific vehicle.
One per property. -
visitor permit – For regular visitors. The resident must apply and give consent.
No limit per property, except in Zone M (max 2). -
Business operating in a residential zone (includes HMO's and Air BnBs)(max 2)
3. How do I apply?
Applications must be made by the resident who is named on council tax or landlord of HMO or Air BnB.
4. How much do permits cost?
- first permit: £15
- second permit: £25
- third permit: £40
- additional permits: £40
- Business within a residential zone (including HMO & Air BnBs): £350
The cost is based on the number of permits, not the type.
5. Can I get a refund if I cancel?
- more than 6 months left: 50% refund (open permit must be returned before refund is issued).
- less than 6 months left: No refund.
6. What if I lose my permit?
- Permits that are linked to a vehicle are virtual, no permit is displayed
- visitors open permit: £20 replacement fee.
7. What if I change my vehicle?
You will need to provide your new vehicle documents such as your logbook, insurance document or hire agreement. If waiting for documents. Contact the parking team: on 01429 523100
8. Can I apply with a company vehicle?
Yes. By providing documentation of the vehicle or insurance documents confirming the vehicle is assigned to you.
9. Can visitors use a permit indefinitely?
No. Visitor and open permits are only valid while visiting the resident. Misuse may result in a penalty charge.
10. Can I request a short-term exemption instead of a permit?
All circumstances will be reviewed by the parking team.
11. Can non-permit holders park in a controlled zone?
Yes, in limited cases:
- up to 6 minutes for loading/unloading if seen at obervation
12. I don’t own a vehicle. Do I need a permit?
No, but you may want to apply for an open permit for visitors. Alternatively, visitors can purchase a parking wavier at £10 per day, per vehicle.
13. Does a permit guarantee a space outside my home?
No. Permits allow parking in any marked bay within your zone, but spaces are not reserved.
14. What if I can’t park on my street?
You can park in the nearest adjacent street within the same residential zone. The permits will not be valid for any other controlled zone i.e. Business Permit Bay, Commuters bays.
15. What if I forget to display my permit?
If your open permit is not clearly displayed, you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice.
16. What are the enforcement hours?
- Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm
- no enforcement on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year’s Day
- all other Bank Holidays are enforced
17. Will enforcement officers knock if they don’t see a permit?
No. It is your responsibility to ensure your permit is clearly displayed.
18. Are there concessions for Blue Badge holders?
Yes. Blue Badge holders can park for up to 3 hours with a valid badge and clock displayed.
19. Can businesses operating in a residential zone get permits?
Yes. Businesses can apply for the maximum of 2 business permits at £350 each per year subject to evidence.
20. I am resident in a HMO/Air BnB property can I apply for a residential permit?
No. As the property is operating as a business within a residential area, responsibility for applying for permits lies with the property owner. Evidence must be provided, and permits are limited to a maximum of two per HMO property.
21. Are there permits for essential service staff?
Yes. Concessionary permits are available subject to evidence for:
- Health / Care workers
- Funeral Directors
- Religious Persons
- Landlords
- Hairdressers
- Charities
- Hotels/Guest Houses