Accessible Parking Permits make it easier for people with limited mobility to park in designated spots closer to where they need to go. The Ministry of Transportation issues these permits, and there is no cost to get, renew or replace your permit through them. The City enforces the rules for accessible parking. Designated spaces have a sign displaying the universal accessibility symbol and have marks on the pavement.
How to get an accessible parking permit
The Ministry of Transportation (MTO) issues and controls Accessible Parking Permits.
Parking without a permit
If you park in a designated accessible spot without a valid permit, you could be fined $300.
Check out our Fines and Penalties page for more details and to view the Accessible Parking By-law.
Accessible parking permit restrictions
Even with an accessible parking permit, here is where you cannot park:
- No parking, no stopping, or no standing zones
- Intersections or crosswalks
- Areas that block traffic or interfere with snow-clearing
- In front of or within 1.5 metres of a driveway, laneway, or curb cut
- On an inner or outer boulevard
- Within 3 metres of a fire hydrant
- On or over a sidewalk
- In the same spot for more than 12 hours
- Any location between 2 am and 6 am
- Any location if your permit is expired. Make sure the permit is still valid and renew it with the MTO to avoid fines
Always check for posted signs before parking!
Parking lot requirements for accessible spaces
Check out our Parking Lot Owner Requirements for Accessible Spaces to learn how many spaces every public parking lot operator must provide.
Other types of parking permits
Check out our Parking Permits page to learn how to apply for city-issued residential, overnight, and commercial loading permits.
Frequently asked questions
Can I stay in the car in an accessible parking space while my family or friends go inside for me?
No, not even when your permit is visible. If you’re using an accessible parking space, you must exit the vehicle. If you stay in the car while someone else leaves, they’re using the permit for personal use, which isn’t allowed. If you don’t need to leave the car, there’s no reason to park in an accessible spot.
Can I use my accessible permit for parking meters or municipal lots?
Yes! If you have a valid accessible parking permit, you can park at city meters for free for up to the maximum time on the meter or two hours, whichever is less. Just make sure your permit is clearly displayed, or you may get a ticket.
In municipal parking lots, your permit lets you park without paying for the maximum allowed time.
Can my friends and family use my accessible permit when parking?
No. Only you, the permit holder, can use it to park in an accessible space. If someone else uses it, they could be fined up to $5,000, and the permit may be taken away.
Can I use my accessible parking permit to park in a No Parking or No Stopping area?
No. The accessible parking permit does not allow parking in restricted areas such as No Parking, No Stopping, or No Standing.
Do the same accessible parking rules apply in every Ontario city?
Not always. Every city sets its own rules for how accessible parking permits can be used, except for one: you can always use your permit in a designated accessible parking space. Other rules depend on each municipality’s needs.
Why did I get a ticket when my accessible permit was in my window or visor?
Even if your permit is in the window or visor, you’ll get a ticket if it’s not completely visible from outside the vehicle. You could still be fined if any part of the expiry date or permit code is blocked. Before you leave your car, double-check that your permit is clearly displayed!
Can the city renew it, or can you look up my accessible parking permit information?
No. Only the Ministry of Transportation can issue, renew, and replace accessible parking permits.
Contact us
Parking Services
MacBain Community Centre
7150 Montrose Road, Unit #1
Niagara Falls, ON L2H 3N3
Phone: 905-356-7521 x 4700
Parking enforcement after hours: 905-356-1355 evenings and weekends
Email: [email protected]
