Month: September 2019

An overhead view of a massive parking lot, 13 columns of cars in different models and colours all lined up on grey asphalt

Ontario Accessible Parking Permit – Parking Tips

TheWillowsWorkLeave a comment

I recently received my permanent Accessible Parking Permit, and decided to take some time to learn the rules for permit holders in Ontario.

A blue Ontario Accessible Parking Pass (a narrow piece of paper with a large wheelchair symbol on it and some blurred out numbers) on a bamboo desk, with a pen, measuring tape, and pamphlet unnecessarily scattered around it.

APPLYING
Obtain the latest application form for an Accessible Parking Permit in Ontario.  Fill out as much of your information as possible, and then bring it to a health care provider to complete.  In 2019, you could have a doctor, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, chiropractor, nurse, or chiropodist complete the form.  They will check a box indicating how long your limitations may last, and a box indicating why you need an Accessible Parking Permit.  The current form (SR-LV-129) has a section for general impairments, for those who do not use mobility aids or do not yet have a diagnosis (Part B, Section 1, Option G).  Before you submit your application, make a photocopy of it and file it away for later- just in case.

If you FAX in your application, you must also submit ID with your fax.

If you go to a Service Ontario location in person, note that the Accessibility Desk may just be the same desk everyone else is lining up for.  In this case, the expectation is that you will cut the line.  You can also make an appointment online, though appointments are often only available if made several weeks in advance.
Source: Apply for an ON Parking Permit, Government of Ontario

RENEWAL
The Blue permanent pass expires in five years.  When that time comes, you must apply for a replacement permit.  You must submit your personal information and address(es), but you do NOT need to have a health care provider fill out anything.
Source: Renewing ON Parking Permit, Government of Ontario

ACCESSIBLE PARKING IN TORONTO
Here, is gets a little complicated.  Of course the pass allows you to park in any designated accessible parking spot, but there are some additional accommodations within the City of Toronto.

  • Permit holders do not have to pay for street parking.
  • Permit holders DO have to pay for private parking, including Green P parking (because it is not on the street.)
  • You can ignore No Parking signs on the street only if there is no obvious reason that parking is forbidden, AND it is NOT rush hour (6am-10am, and 3pm-7pm.)
    • You still cannot block a driveway, fire route, taxi stand, loading zone, public lane, No Standing/Stopping zones, bridge, car-share vehicle spot, streetcar tracks (including turning area marked with white dots), or block in another vehicle.
    • You cannot park near a fire hydrant, fire station, intersection, entrance to busy building, end of a dead end street, or crosswalk.
    • You cannot block any major street.  (The website says “highways” but in Toronto, major streets are classified as highways.)
  • Parking time limits are extended to 3 hours.
  • You can park on residential streets without a residential street permit for up to 24 hours.

Source: Accessible parking in Toronto, City of Toronto

ACCESSIBLE PARKING IN OTTAWA

  • Street parking  is free.
  • Parking time limits are extended to 4 hours.

Source: Accessible parking in Ottawa, City of Ottawa

ACCESSIBLE PARKING IN MISSISSAUGA

  • Street parking is free.

Source: Accessible parking in Mississauga, City of Mississauga

ACCESSIBLE PARKING IN NIAGARA FALLS

  • Street parking is free, up to the maximum time on the meter OR 2 hours, whichever is less.
  • Parking in municipal parking lots is free, up to the maximum time of the lot.

Source:  Accessible parking in Niagara Falls, City of Niagara Falls