Picture this. You’re driving along downtown, taking in the local murals, seeing our history, but now you decide to park. You don’t know whether or not to pick a private or public parking lot, along with the various fees + prices.
Don’t worry, that’s what we’re here for. Did you know that the city has a couple of programs to help make parking downtown easier?
Let’s break it down.
Parking permits
Do you drive an electric or hybrid vehicle? There’s a parking permit program for you. Here are the details:
- Hybrid/EV placard vehicles are allowed to park for free at downtown street parking meters or street pay station (not to exceeding the limit of the meter or pay station)
- Not valid at city garages and lots
- An application must be completed and submitted in-person at the Parking Division
- The program is free
- Valid one per vehicle owner
Do you live downtown? There’s a program for you too. The Residential Parking Permit allows residential parking in designated zones during high-traffic events in adjacent neighborhoods. Here are the qualifying residential zones:
- North Flores district
- Arsenal district
- Lavaca district
- Perry Court area
Residents in these areas will be notified by mail when to apply or renew their permit. Apply here.
Disabled Parking
The city also offers free, short-term parking (less than 24 hours) for individuals who have the following state issued disabled parking permit or special state issued plates:
- Disabled Placard
- Disabled Plate
- Disabled Veteran Plates
- Military awards
Valid at city operated lots, garages, meters, and pay stations.
Downtown Tuesday offers free parking every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. at city-operated parking garages, parking lots, and parking meters. Use this interactive map for garages and more spots.
Pro tip: Download the SAPark App for easy convenience and paying on the go.