The purpose of the Residential Permit Parking (RPP) program is to ease the impacts of non-resident parking in neighborhoods along streets where space is limited and may be adjacent to commercial properties. Aspects of the program include the implementation of designated areas and times for resident-only parking and the issuance of parking permits for residents and their visitors.
What's changing in Residential Permit Parking?
Austin’s RPP program helps residents manage street parking in busy neighborhoods. But after years without significant updates, and with growing public feedback calling for reform, the City is proposing new Director Rules to modernize and improve how RPP works.
Why Now?
A citywide survey showed:
- Critical feedback of the current RPP system
- Residents want fairer rules, better enforcement, and more inclusion
- Many respondents suggested fee reductions and clearer communication about how the program works
What are the proposed changes?
- Eligibility and application: Simplified and standardized with new documentation requirements
- Zone approval: Updated thresholds for neighborhood support and occupancy studies
- Permits: Introduction of affordable options, linked to actual parking availability
- Ongoing Review: Periodic re-evaluation of permit zones to ensure continued need
- Transparency: Clear rules for permit revocation and an appeal process for residents
How to get involved
Community input is vital. You can read the full proposal and submit comments through June 13, 2025. Final adoption is anticipated July 17, 2025. This is your chance to help shape a more effective, equitable residential parking system.
To review the proposed rules, visit the website here.
Comments can be sent to: TPWRPPRuleComments@austintexas.gov.
When submitting feedback, please include the following details:
- Section number
- Page number
- Line number
- Text of the rule
- Suggested change and a brief explanation of why the change is needed
New Applications Paused
The Transportation and Public Works Department has put a temporary pause on new Residential Permit Parking applications effective March 21st, 2025. The pause will provide TPW time to review and update the existing 2011 RPP program guidelines. The new RPP program guidelines will be updated into a directors’ rules format that requires a public comment period. The new program guidelines will be adopted on July 10th, 2025. Please see the memo to the Mayor and Austin City Council members for additional details on the pause.
New Residential Permit Portal
If you are a resident on a participating street in the program, there is a new portal where you can obtain individual permits for your household and visitors.
Office Visits by Appointment Only
Currently, the Residential and Commercial Parking Permitting Office is operating by appointment only.
To schedule an appointment email ResidentialParking@AustinTexas.gov or call 512-974-7857.
Permits are being issued by regular mail with over-the-phone payments.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Whom do I contact if I have non-permit holders parking on a street designated only for residents?
-
Report parking issues to Austin 3-1-1 by phone or through the mobile app under “Parking Enforcement.” You can also email complaints to ResidentialParking@austintexas.gov. Parking enforcement has a dedicated residential parking enforcement officer who will respond to such complaints.
- Who can enforce the residential parking areas?
-
All parking enforcement officers, the Austin Police Department, and other police agencies that have the authority to write citations for parking violations can enforce residential parking areas. Residential parking signs are just like any regulated sign and can be enforced at any time. A dedicated parking enforcement officer enforces residential parking and will respond to complaints within residential parking areas. Enforcement is routine and is not only conducted if a resident sends a complaint.