Residential Parking Permit Program

Curbside resources are under increasing demand as Denver balances on-street mobility uses with curbside access and parking demand. This demand, coupled with City transportation priorities, underscores the importance of creating an equitable and efficient Residential Parking Permit (RPP) Program while providing on-street parking access for a variety of users. Denver's RPP Program is designed to improve resident parking access to their primary residence in areas near commercial, industrial, institutional, or event-based land uses.

DOTI establishes RPP Zones in neighborhoods and issues RPPs to more efficiently manage the public right-of-way. RPP Zones are one of the tools available to manage parking demand in residential areas.

A Residential Parking Permit (RPP) exempts a resident or guest vehicle from the posted, on-street parking time limit restrictions ONLY in a designated Block or Area Zone. RPP Zones are typically implemented through a Curbside Access Plan.

Types of RPPs

  • Vehicle Specific Parking Permit (VSPP): Associated with a vehicle license plate registered at an eligible Denver address and issues annually.
  • Flex Parking Permit (FPP): A physical hangtag issued annually to an eligible City and County of Denver address. Designed for vehicle parking for resident guests, service providers, or resident vehicles. Only one Flex Parking Permit can be active at an address at any given time.

Please note: If your driver license and/or vehicle registration do not match the address for which you are applying, you may be issued a Temporary Parking Permit to allow time for updating. TPPs are available as a one-time courtesy, effective for a maximum of 90 days, and have an administrative fee of $20.

Permit Maximums

Off-street parking access will determine the number of permits an eligible address can obtain. This encourages residents to maximize off-street parking options, supports city transportation and equity goals, and enables the city to expand permit eligibility to larger multi-unit buildings. Off-Street Parking is defined as space available or intended for the parking of motor vehicles located on private property, including but not limited to a driveway, garage (whether used for vehicle storage or repurposed), carport, or alley access with space for a parking pad, or apartment/condominium buildings with parking lots or garage access (paid or unpaid).

  • Off-Street Parking Available: Eligible addresses may obtain up to two (2) VSPPs or one (1) VSPP and one (1) FPP.
  • Off-Street Parking Unavailable: Eligible addresses may obtain up to three (3) VSPPs or two (2) VSPPs and one (1) FPP.

As of June 12, 2023, all eligible addresses must meet Residential Parking Permit Rules & Regulations, including permit maximums, regardless of previous permit program participation.

Apply for a Permit

Apply/Renew Online

Apply Now

Before you start the online application process for a Residential Parking Permit, you will need electronic copies (.jpg, .tif, .pdf) of the documents outlined below by permit type:

Vehicle Specific Parking Permit (VSPP):

Applicants applying for a VSPP need to provide proof of residence in the City and County of Denver. Applicant’s name and physical address must appear on all submitted documentation and match the physical address for the location where the RPP is being requested. Post Office (PO) boxes are not acceptable to establish proof of residence. To apply for a Vehicle Specific Parking Permit, please provide the following documents in electronic format, dated within the last 30 days:

  1. Proof of address eligible documents:
    • Utility bill (e.g., Xcel, Denver Water, solid/wastewater from the City & County of Denver)
    • T.V. or Internet bill
    • Cell phone bill (e.g., Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, etc.)
    • Property tax document
    • Current auto or renters or homeowners' insurance statement displaying an active policy date.
    • Fully executed lease signed and dated by all parties within the last 90 days.
  2. A copy of the applicant's valid Colorado driver's license. The address must match the VSOO application address. If driver license does not match see below.
    • Follow the DMV's instructions, at https://mydmv.colorado.gov, for address updates and provide a copy of both sides of your ID and/or address change email if applicable.
  3. A copy of the applicant's current vehicle registration. The Vehicle Registration address must match the RPP application address and display DENVER COUNTY. If vehicle registration address does not match OR applicant's name is not displayed on the vehicle registration see below.
    • Follow the DMV's instructions, at https://mydmv.colorado.gov, for address change and provide an address change confirmation email.
    • If applicants name is not on the vehicle registration, the applicant must provide a permission letter from the vehicle owner. The letter can be written or typed. It must be signed, dated and a phone number provided by the vehicle owner.

Flex Parking Permit (FPP):

To apply for a Flex Parking Permit, please provide the following documents in electronic format, dated within the last 30 days:

  1. Proof of address:
    • Utility bill (e.g., Xcel, Denver Water, solid/wastewater from the City & County of Denver)
    • T.V. or Internet bill
    • Cell phone bill (e.g., Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, etc.)
    • Property Tax document
    • Current auto or renters or homeowners' insurance statement displaying an active policy date.
    • Fully executed lease signed and dated by all parties within the last 90 days.
  2. A copy of the applicant's driver's license OR Colorado identification card. The address must match the FPP application process. If the driver's license address does not match see below.
    • Follow the DMV's instructions, at https://mydmv.colorado.gov, for address updates and provide a copy of both sides of your ID and/or address change email if applicable.

Please note: Temporary Parking Permit (TPP) are only available to those moving from out of state to allow time for updating documents to Colorado. TPPs are available as a one-time courtesy, effective for a maximum of 90 days, and have an administrative fee of $20.

Apply Now

Apply by Mail

Mail in copies of all documents outlined below by permit type. Original documents are not required and they will not be returned to the applicant, if mailed.

Vehicle Specific Parking Permit (VSPP):

Applicants applying for a VSPP need to provide proof of residence in the City and County of Denver. Applicant’s name and physical address must appear on all submitted documentation and match the physical address for the location where the RPP is being requested. Post Office (PO) boxes are not acceptable to establish proof of residence. To apply for a Vehicle Specific Parking Permit, please provide the following documents in electronic format, dated within the last 30 days:

  1. Proof of address eligible documents:
    • Utility bill (e.g., Xcel, Denver Water, solid/wastewater from the City & County of Denver)
    • T.V. or Internet bill
    • Cell phone bill (e.g., Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, etc.)
    • Property Tax document
    • Current auto or renters or homeowners' insurance statement displaying an active policy date.
    • Fully executed lease signed and dated by all parties within the last 90 days.
  2. A copy of the applicant's valid Colorado driver's license. The address must match the VSOO application address. If driver license does not match see below.
    • Follow the DMV's instructions, at https://mydmv.colorado.gov, for address updates and provide a copy of both sides of your ID and/or address change email if applicable.
  3. A copy of the applicant’s current vehicle registration. The Vehicle Registration address must match the RPP application address and display DENVER COUNTY. If vehicle registration address does not match OR applicant's name is not displayed on the vehicle registration see below.
    • If applicant's name is not on the vehicle registration, the applicant must provide a permission letter from the vehicle owner. The letter can be written or typed. It must be signed, dated and a phone number provided by the vehicle owner.

Vehicle Specific Application(PDF, 230KB)

Flex Parking Permit (FPP):

To apply for a Flex Parking Permit, please provide the following documents in electronic format, dated within the last 30 days:

  1. Proof of address:
    • Utility bill (e.g., Xcel, Denver Water, solid/wastewater from the City & County of Denver)
    • T.V. or Internet bill
    • Cell phone bill (e.g., Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, etc.)
    • Property Tax document
    • Current auto or renters or homeowners' insurance statement displaying an active policy date.
    • Fully executed lease signed and dated by all parties within the last 90 days.
  2. A copy of the applicant’s driver's license OR Colorado identification card. The address must match the FPP application address. If the driver's license address does not match see below.
    • Follow the DMV's instructions, at https://mydmv.colorado.gov for address updates and provide a copy of both sides of your ID and/or address change email if applicable.

Flex Permit Application(PDF, 222KB)

Please note: Temporary Parking Permit (TPP) are available only to those moving from out of state to allow time for updating document to Colorado. TPPs are available as a one-time courtesy, effective for a maximum of 90 days, and have an administrative fee of $20.

Contact Information

DOTI Curbside & Parking Permit Office
Denver, CO 80202
Parking.Permits@denvergov.org

The DOTI Curbside & Parking Permit Office is only accepting in-person permit applications for customers paying with cash, by appointment only. If you have an issue or need accommodation, please call 311 to speak with a technician, Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Additional Details

Who is eligible for an RPP?

Applicants who live at an eligible address located within an RPP Zone may apply for RPPs. For purposes of these rules and regulations, an eligible address is an address located on a street with Parking Time Limits or No Parking, Permit Excepted Restrictions.

Addresses located within an RPP Zone and in a large multi-unit dwelling, may be ineligible for RPPs when the number of units is significantly greater than the immediate on-street parking supply. This scenario typically occurs within Downtown, General Urban, Multi-Unit, Residential Mixed-Use, Mixed-Use, Main Street, and Urban Center Zoning Districts. RPP eligibility for large multi-unit dwelling structures located within these Zone Districts will be determined though a CAP. Additionally, buildings, developments, and/or address that have received on-site off-street parking exemptions (or reductions) per the Denver Zoning Code may not be eligible for RPPs.

Address eligibility for structures located within Area and Block Zones are below:

  • Block Zone Eligibility: single-dwelling, row home, multi-unit dwelling, or accessory dwelling structures consisting of 20 units/addresses or less.
  • Area Zone Eligibility: single-dwelling, row home, multi-unit dwelling, or accessory dwelling structures consisting of 21-50 units/addresses.

As of June 12, 2023, all eligible addresses must meet Residential Parking Permit Rules & Regulations regardless of previous permit program participation.

How many RPPs can an address obtain?

The number of permits an eligible address can obtain is based on off-street parking access. Off-street parking is defined as addresses with a driveway, garage (whether used for vehicle storage or repurposed for another use), carport, or alley access (with space for a parking pad), or apartment/condominium buildings with a parking lot or garage access (paid or unpaid).

  • Off-Street Parking Available: Eligible addresses may obtain up to two (2) VSPPs or one (1) VSPP and one (1) FPP.
  • Off-Street Parking Unavailable: Eligible addresses may obtain up to three (3) VSPPs or two (2) VSPPs and one (1) FPP.

Address eligibility and maximum number of permits an address can obtain are subject to change.

What is a Flex Permit and how is it different from a Guest Permit?

Flex Parking Permits are physical hangtags issued annually. Designed for temporary vehicle parking by residents, resident guests, service providers. They can be used for assigned work vehicles, but cannot be issued for boats, trailers, RVs, or campers.

Flex Permits have replaced Guest Permits. Guest Permits were issued annually in the form of a physical hangtag and could not be used by service providers (childcare, landscape maintenance, etc.) or assigned work vehicles.

Are there any exceptions or unique circumstances when applying for a RPP?

Exceptions include:

  • Vehicle Ownership: If the applicant is not the owner of the vehicle the permit is being requested for, the resident does not need to update the vehicle registration but will need to provide permission from the registered owner stating that the applicant has permission to use this vehicle as their primary vehicle.
  • Non-Resident College Students: Any non-resident temporarily residing in Denver to attend a college or university, is at least 16 years of age, has a valid driver license from his or her state of residence, and is considered a non-resident by his/her college or university with verification from said college or university that the non-resident is a current full- time student at said college or university, is exempt from obtaining a Colorado driver license. Additionally, non-resident students who meet the above criteria will not need to register their vehicle in Denver.
  • U.S. Military: Active-duty U.S. military personnel and their spouses are exempt from obtaining a Colorado driver license when they have a valid driver license issued by another state. Active-duty U.S. military personnel in Colorado who claim another state as their home state of residence may register their vehicle(s) in Colorado.

Unique circumstances include:

  • Short-term Rental: Tenants can apply for a Temporary Parking Permit.
  • Property Owners (not residing at the address): Are ineligible for Vehicle Specific Parking Permits and Flex Parking Permits. Off-street, garage, surface, driveway, and nearby unrestricted parking are the most convenient options in this case.
  • Second Homeowners: May be eligible for a Flex Parking Permit or can apply for Vehicle Specific Parking Permits for vehicles registered in Denver.
  • Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU): May be eligible for Vehicle Specific Parking Permits and Flex Parking Permits as long as a separate address exists for the ADU.
  • Group Living: The number of Vehicle Specific Parking Permits and Flex Parking Permits that a dwelling can obtain is based on the address, not on the number of households or licensed drivers residing at a given address. Off-street, garage, surface, driveway, and nearby unrestricted parking are the most convenient options in this case.

What are the steps to get an RPP in my neighborhood or reevaluate my neighborhood?

The establishment of RPP Zones is accomplished through a Curbside Access Plan (CAP) or Block Modification.

CAPs are essentially neighborhood (or area) based comprehensive parking plans that respond to concerns voiced by area residents, businesses, and property owners, explore alternative management strategies, and develop recommendations. They are designed to address an area’s changing conditions (density, redevelopment, bike lanes, etc.), parking inconsistencies, and needs of various users. They are typically implemented within 12-18 months and result in the introduction (and modification) of various parking/curbside restrictions through the installation of parking signs.

Block-based curbside and parking modifications, due to reduced parking capacity or increased non-resident parking demand, are implemented outside of the CAP process to address changing conditions. Typically, these block-based modifications include no more than six blocks. Public outreach and notification are part of this process.

If you feel parking and curbside management are needed in your neighborhood to manage non-resident parking demand, please submit a Denver 311 Help Center request.

Why is the City charging a fee for permits?

Fees are intended to cover the cost of administering the Residential Parking Permit Program and will not be implemented until 2024. Current permit fees can be found in the DOTI Residential Parking Permit Program Entrance Requirements(PDF, 119KB). Fees for each RPP shall be paid annually and may be prorated to the nearest full month. All parking permits are revocable and non-refundable.

Why did DOTI create Residential Parking Permit Rules & Regulations?

DOTI created Residential Parking Permit (RPP) Rules & Regulations (R&R) to address emerging resident and business needs and increase transparency and consistency in both permit eligibility and implementation. The first Residential Parking Permit ordinance was written in 1956 and modified in 1987 and no longer adequately addressed increasing residential densities, equity concerns, or transportation goals. The updated R&R supports City goals established in plans like the Comprehensive Plan 2040 (2019), Blueprint Denver (2019), Strategic Parking Plan (2010), Mobility Action Plan (2017), Transportation Demand Management Program and Regulations (2021), and Denver Moves Everyone 2050 (2023).

Program Core Values

  1. Create a more transparent & efficient program
  2. Apply equitable program application
  3. Apply consistent eligibility criteria 
  4. Implement neighborhood-based decision-making
  5. Maximize curbside resources
  6. Support DOTI transportation goals and objectives

Who reviews RPP applications and how is Passport involved?

City staff reviews RPP applications and uses a web-based software platform provided by Passport Labs Inc. to manage application information. The Passport system launched in November 2022 after a competitive procurement process. A third-party software vendor has been part of the RPP application process for 30+ years.

As with any new vendor, we are committed to consistently reviewing customer feedback to improve the application process and customer experience.

How were the public and RPP participants involved in this process?

This Residential Parking Permit (RPP) Rules & Regulations (R&R) process began in 2021 and included close coordination with various city departments, city council members, and a Stakeholder Working Group composed of residents and representatives from Registered Neighborhood Organizations (RNO). Additionally, a survey was sent to 9,400 RPP participants in December 2021 to solicit input and approximately 4,000 responses were received. Survey participants had the opportunity to opt in to receive future updates about the R&R via email.

In March 2022, RPP R&R recommendations were presented at an Inter-Neighborhood Cooperation (INC) Transportation Committee meeting. This presentation was recorded and uploaded to the INC website. In spring 2023, RPP participants who opted in to receive updates and RNOs were notified regarding RPP changes and provided with public hearing information. This information was also advertised online and in the Denver Business Journal.

Final RPP R&R were approved by the Executive Director of DOTI in June 2023 following the public hearing, which was held virtually on May 5, 2023.

Program Resources

Contact

For general inquiries, please submit a Denver 311 Help Center request or call (720) 913-1311.

Related Information

Restrictions: Mile High Events

During all events over 20,000 attendees, Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DOTI) Right of Way Enforcement will be actively monitoring on-street parking around the stadium area to make sure that vehicles comply with all posted restrictions. Vehicles that are illegally parked in the area may be ticketed and could be subject to towing.

Other Transportation Options

There are other modes of transportation available in the city, such as buses, trains, e-bikes and e-scooters that can be rented, carshare, transportation network companies (Uber and Lyft), and more.

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