How do parking lots near shopping centers work?

Calgary shopping centers offer a variety of parking options, from free spaces to dedicated areas for electric vehicles and families. Below is everything you need to know about rules, rates, and tips for a comfortable visit.

General rules

Free parking

  • Most shopping centers (Chinook Centre, Market Mall, Southcentre Mall) offer free parking for customers.
  • Time restrictions: Some areas allow parking for up to 3 hours (for example, near the entrance to IKEA).

Special areas

  • For people with disabilities: Designated spaces near entrances (valid permit required).
  • For families and pregnant women: Areas marked “Parent & Baby” (e.g., IKEA, Chinook Centre).
  • Electric cars: Free charging stations (IKEA, Chinook Centre) – 2 hours of charging free of charge.

Parking at popular shopping centers

1. CF Chinook Centre

  • Number of spaces: 5,500 (including underground heated parking).
  • Features:
  • Parking height: 6'2“ (West Parkade), 7'6” (North Parkade).
  • Peak hours: Queues are possible on weekends and before holidays.
  • For employees: Often required to park in remote parking lots (e.g., near Home Depot).

2. CF Market Mall

  • Number of spaces: 4,000.
  • Rates: Free for customers.
  • Amenities: Parking for people with disabilities, women, and families.

3. Southcentre Mall

  • RV parking: Free for up to 2 days (advance registration required).
  • Surface: Covered parking near Sears – convenient in winter.

4. IKEA Calgary

  • Conditions:
  • Free for everyone.
  • Eco-parking: 2 spaces for hybrid cars.
  • Anti-idling: No idling while loading.

ParkPlus system

Where is it available?

  • Downtown parking lots (e.g., CORE Shopping Center).
  • Terms and conditions:
  • Payment via the MyParking app or virtual parking meters.
  • Rates: From $2.50 to $6 CAD/hour depending on the zone.

How does it work?

  1. Enter the zone number in the app.
  2. Select the parking duration.
  3. Automatic session termination refunds unused time.

Fines and restrictions

  • Violations:
  • Parking in disabled zones without a permit – $300 CAD.
  • Occupying employee parking spaces – risk of towing.
  • Payment terms: 10% discount for payment within 10 days.

Tips from locals

  1. Avoid peak hours: The fewest cars are before 11:00 a.m. or after 7:00 p.m.
  2. Use apps:
  • ChargeHub to find charging stations.
  • MyParking to pay in ParkPlus zones.
  1. Check signs: Some areas are reserved for customers of specific stores (e.g., CORE Shopping Centre).

Conclusion

Parking near shopping centers in Calgary is convenient but requires attention to detail. The most important thing is to follow the rules, use designated areas, and don't ignore restrictions. To save time, choose parking lots with extended services (such as heating or charging) and plan your visits outside of peak hours.