Are there special parking spaces for people with disabilities?

Calgary has an extensive system of accessible parking for people with disabilities. Special spaces are located on streets, in parking lots, and near key facilities, and their use is regulated by provincial and municipal laws. Below is a detailed guide with rules, locations, and fines for violations.

Terms of use

Who can use it?

  • Alberta residents who cannot walk more than 50 meters (164 feet) without assistance.
  • Visitors from other provinces/countries: May use valid placards from their region or obtain a temporary (red) placard at registration centers.

Types of placards:

  • Temporary: Issued for 3–12 months (medical certificate required).
  • Long-term: Valid for 5 years.
  • Permanent: Renewed every 5 years without a new medical certificate.

Where to find special parking spaces?

1. Street parking

  • 20 locations in Downtown and other areas, marked with blue signs and curbs.
  • Examples:
  • Zone 1116: 1 St. S.W. & 2 Ave. S.W.
  • Zone 1184: 3 Ave. S.W. & 6 St. S.W.
  • Zone 1487: 4 Ave. S.W. & 8 St. S.W.

Conditions:

  • Payment is required in some areas (e.g., $2.50/hour).
  • A placard or special license plate must be visible.

2. Parking lots and shopping centers

  • City Hall Parkade: 4 special spaces (Level 1–3).
  • The CORE Shopping Centre: Free parking for customers with posters.
  • Hospitals and universities: Foothills Medical Centre, University of Calgary – dozens of spaces near the entrances.

3. Residential areas

  • Resident parking request: Submit online with a copy of the placard and proof of address.
  • Conditions: No other parking available or access is difficult due to disability.

Rules of use

  1. Visible placard: Display the placard on the rearview mirror (number and expiration date must be visible).
  2. Registration certificate: Must be in the car with the placard.
  3. Prohibited:
  • Using another person's placard.
  • Leaving the car in a special zone without a person with a disability entering or exiting the vehicle.

Penalties for violations

  • Parking without a placard: $200–300 CAD.
  • Falsification or misuse of the placard: Cancellation of the placard + fine of up to $500 CAD.
  • Blocking special zones: Towing of the car + storage fees ($100–200 CAD/day).

How to get a placard?

  1. Fill out an application: The form is available at registration centers or online.
  2. Medical confirmation: A doctor, physical therapist, or other specialist must sign the application.
  3. Payment: $9 CAD at a registration center (e.g., Registry Express).

For visitors

  • Temporary placard: Issued for the duration of your stay (return before departure).
  • International placards: Accepted if valid and containing a photo.

Conclusion

Calgary has special parking spaces for people with disabilities, but their use is subject to strict rules. Obtaining a placard is a simple process, and violations are punishable by significant fines. Visitors to the city should obtain temporary permits or use their national placards.