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): A permit associated to a specific license plate, issued annually. Your license plate will serve as your permit. There is an administrative fee of $20.
    • Please Note: Temporary Vehicle Specific Parking Permits are available only to those moving from OUT OF STATE to allow time for updating documents to Colorado. Temporary permits are a one-time courtesy, valid for up to 90 days. To apply for a Temporary Vehicle Specific Parking Permit, submit a Vehicle Specific Parking Permit (VSPP) application. Eligibility will be determined based on the documents provided.
  • Flex Parking Permit (FPP): A physical hangtag issued annually, designed for residential vehicles, guest vehicles, or service providers. Only one FPP can be active at an address at any given time. There is an administrative fee of $25.
    • Please Note: Temporary Flex Parking Permits will not be issued. Temporary permits are only eligible for Vehicle Specific Parking Permits (VSPP) for residents with OUT OF STATE documents as a one-time courtesy.

Permit Maximums

The number of permits an eligible address can obtain is based on off-street parking availability. This approach encourages the use of off-street parking, supports city transportation, equity goals, and allows for expanded permit eligibility for larger multi-unit buildings. Off-street parking includes spaces on private property such as driveways, garage (used for vehicles or repurposed), carports, alley access with parking pads, or parking lots/garages at apartment/condominium buildings (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.

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 VSPP 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:

  1. Proof of Residence eligible documents (provide ONE of the following dated within the last 30 days):
    • 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 license. The address must match the VSPP 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 must match the VSPP application address and display DENVER COUNTY. If the vehicle registration doesn't match or the applicant's name isn't on the 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:

  1. Proof of Residence eligible documents (provide ONE of the following dated within the last 30 days):
    • 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 Vehicle Specific Parking Permits are available only to those moving from OUT OF STATE to allow time for updating documents to Colorado. Temporary permits are a one-time courtesy, valid for up to 90 days. To apply for a Temporary Vehicle Specific Parking Permit, submit a Vehicle Specific Parking Permit (VSPP) application. Eligibility will be determined based on the documents provided.

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 VSPP 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:

  1. Proof of Residence eligible documents (provide ONE of the following dated within the last 30 days):
    • 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 license. The address must match the VSPP 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 must match the VSPP application address and display DENVER COUNTY. If the vehicle registration doesn't match or the applicant's name isn't on the 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, 284KB)

Flex Parking Permit (FPP):

To apply for a Flex Parking Permit, please provide the following documents in electronic format:

  1. Proof of Residence eligible documents (provide ONE of the following dated within the last 30 days):
    • 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, 281KB)

Please note: Temporary Vehicle Specific Parking Permits are available only to those moving from OUT OF STATE to allow time for updating document to Colorado. Temporary permits are available as a one-time courtesy, valid for up to 90 days. To apply for a Temporary Vehicle Specific Parking Permit, submit a Vehicle Specific Parking Permit (VSPP) application. Eligibility will be determined based on the documents provided.

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.

FAQ

What types of Residential Parking Permits (RPPs) are there?

  • A Vehicle Specific Parking Permit (VSPP) is a digital permit associated to a specific license plate, issued annually. Your license plate will serve as your permit. Only one VSPP can be active per licensed driver. There is an administrative fee of $20.
  • A Flex Parking Permit (FPP) is a physical hangtag designed for vehicle parking for residential guests, service providers, or residential vehicles. This physical placard will be mailed to you and must be displayed on the rearview mirror to indicate that the vehicle is not in violation. Only one FPP can be active at an address at any given time. There is an administrative fee of $25.

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.

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 applicant will need to provide a "permission to use" letter from the registered owner. The letter must state that the applicant has permission to use this vehicle. The letter must be signed, dated, and a phone number provided by the vehicle owner.
  • Non-Resident College Students: Any student residing in Denver who attends an accredited college or university, is at least 16 years old, has a valid driver's license from their home state, and provides verification of full-time enrollment from their institution does not need to obtain a Colorado driver's license or register their vehicle in Denver.
  • U.S. Military: Active-duty U.S. military personnel and their spouses are exempt from switching to a Colorado driver license and Colorado vehicle registration. Active-duty U.S. military personnel must provide a current military ID and current driver license.

Unique circumstances include:

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Accessory Dwelling Units (ADU): May be eligible for Vehicle Specific Parking Permits and Flex Parking Permits if a separate address exists for the ADU.
  • Second Homeowners: May be eligible for a Flex Parking Permit only.
  • Short Term Rental: May be eligible for Residential Parking Permits.

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

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.

What if an FPP is lost or stolen?

If a flex parking permit is lost or stolen, notify the Residential Parking Permit office to cancel the active permit. An applicant can then apply for a new permit.

Does my Vehicle Specific Parking Permit come with a Flex Parking Permit?

No, it is a separate permit with its own application process. The Flex Parking Permit (physical placard on the rearview mirror) has a $25 administrative fee, while the Vehicle Specific Parking Permit (license plate-based) has a $20 administrative fee.

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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