How to Get a Disabled Parking Permit for UCLA

How to Get a Disabled Parking Permit at UCLA - Accessible Disabled Parking at UCLA

At UCLA, they understand the importance of accessible parking to ensure an inclusive and equitable experience for everyone on campus, including individuals with disabilities. To support this goal, UCLA Transportation has established comprehensive guidelines and services for those requiring Disabled Parking Placards or Disabled License Plate parking. Below, you’ll find detailed information about parking policies, regulations, and services available for disabled parking on campus, along with essential guidelines to ensure a smooth experience.

UCLA’s Disabled Parking Regulations

UCLA’s parking regulations, designed to ensure a balanced and organized system, are governed by a combination of state law and specific university policies aimed at meeting the needs of all individuals, including those with disabilities. These regulations are carefully structured to provide accessible options while ensuring fairness and compliance with both the California Vehicle Code (CVC) and the university’s unique rules.

Legal Framework for UCLA Parking Regulations

The foundation of parking policies lies within California Vehicle Code (CVC) 21113(a), which authorizes universities across California to establish their own regulations on university property. This provision allows UCLA to create rules tailored to the needs of its community, balancing accessibility for disabled individuals with the parking needs of faculty, staff, students, and visitors.

Additionally, under Article IX, Section 9 of the California State Constitution, the UC Board of Regents holds the authority to govern and organize the University of California system, which includes determining regulations across all UC campuses. The Regents have delegated this authority to individual universities allowing each campus to craft rules that align with its unique environment and requirements.

Parking policies, therefore, reflect both the flexibility granted by the CVC and the broad powers given to the UC Regents, ensuring a regulatory framework that is adaptable, fair, and inclusive.

Ensuring Accessibility Through CVC Section 22511.5

Under CVC Section 22511.5, the California Vehicle Code specifically protects the rights of individuals with disabilities by outlining their entitlements when it comes to privileges. This section guarantees that disabled individuals with Disabled Placards (DP) or Disabled License Plates can access convenient and accommodating options in designated areas. UCLA has structured its parking system in compliance with this law, ensuring that persons with disabilities can park as close as possible to their destinations on campus.

However, while the law provides additional rights to disabled individuals, it does not exempt them from the requirement to obtain a valid tag for university property. All persons—regardless of their disability status—must still purchase and display a valid tag in conjunction with their DP placard or license plate. This requirement is in place to maintain the overall integrity of the parking system, preventing abuse of disabled spaces and ensuring that adequate parking is available for all.

Parking Permit and Disabled Placard/License Plate Requirements

For disabled parking at UCLA, individuals must meet the following requirements:

1. Valid tag: All vehicles must display a valid UCLA permit. This applies to students, faculty, staff, and visitors alike. The tag ensures compliance with general regulations across the campus.

2. Proper Display of DP Placard or License Plate: In addition to a UCLA permit, individuals must also display their Disabled Placard (DP) or Disabled License Plate. This enables enforcement to quickly identify those eligible to use accessible parking spots and ensures that these spaces remain available to those who need them most.

3. Designated Accessible Spaces: The university provides a variety of accessible spaces across campus that are designed to meet the needs of individuals with mobility challenges. These spaces are strategically located in close proximity to campus buildings, medical facilities, and other key areas to facilitate easier access. However, disabled individuals are not permitted to park in restricted areas such as loading zones, red curbs, gated parking structures, or spaces reserved for university vehicles.

Accessible Parking Locations and Services

The university offers a wide range of accessible locations across campus to ensure that individuals with disabilities can easily access key areas, whether they are faculty, staff, students, or visitors. Our commitment to accessibility goes beyond providing spaces—it extends to creating a seamless, user-friendly experience from the moment you arrive on campus.

Identifying the Best Accessible Parking Spots

To help individuals with disabilities find the most suitable spaces based on their specific destination, The university provides several resources that highlight accessible parking locations. These tools allow users to plan their visit in advance and ensure they can park as close as possible to their desired location. The following resources are essential for identifying the best accessible parking spots:

1. UCLA Campus Map: This comprehensive map provides a complete overview of parking areas across the campus, including those designated for individuals with disabilities. It covers all key buildings and facilities, helping users quickly identify accessible parking spots near their destination.

2. Campus Accessibility Map: The Campus Accessibility Map is a specialized resource that focuses on accessibility features beyond just parking. In addition to showing accessible locations, it highlights accessible building entrances, ramps, elevators, and paths of travel. This map is ideal for planning your visit to ensure full accessibility from parking to your final destination.

3. UCLA Interactive Map: This digital, interactive tool allows users to search for accessible parking in real-time. With features like zooming, filtering, and directions, The university Interactive Map is an invaluable resource for those seeking the most convenient and accessible spaces. It also includes information on real-time parking availability, making it easy to plan ahead and avoid delays.

Parking Payment Methods for Visitors with Disabled Placards/License Plates

The university offers a range of convenient options for visitors with Disabled Placards (DP) or Disabled License Plates to purchase permits. The university has implemented several systems to ensure that individuals with disabilities can easily access areas that meet their needs, whether they are visiting the main campus or medical facilities. Below is an expanded guide detailing the different methods available for purchasing tags.

1. Self-Service Pay Stations

Self-Service Pay Stations are strategically located throughout UCLA’s campus to provide visitors with a quick and straightforward method to pay for parking. These stations are available at various structures and lots, allowing individuals to pay for their parking immediately upon arrival.

How to Use Self-Service Pay Stations:

• After parking your vehicle, locate the nearest self-service pay station. These are typically positioned near the entrance or exit of lots and structures.
• When using a pay station, be sure to remember your license plate number, as UCLA’s system uses a license plate recognition process to monitor permits.
• Visitors with a DP placard or DP license plate may park in designated accessible areas, but also have the flexibility to park in general spaces (excluding restricted zones) as long as they comply with disabled parking regulations.

Special Considerations for Medical Parking Areas:

• For visitors to The university ’s medical facilities, pay-on-exit systems are in place. These stations provide clear signage indicating the rates and hours of operation for the Medical Center Parking Facilities.
• Pay stations in medical areas may differ slightly from other campus locations, with some areas charging different rates or offering more flexible time limits to accommodate patient visits.

Important Points:

• Exact change is required when using self-service pay stations, so be prepared to have the correct amount on hand when paying for your permit.
• No refunds are issued for hourly or daily unless the station malfunctions. In the rare event of a malfunction, visitors should contact The university  Services immediately for assistance.

2. ParkMobile (Pay by Phone)

The ParkMobile app provides a modern, contactless payment option for visitors, allowing them to pay for parking through their smartphone. This service offers convenience and flexibility, especially for those who prefer digital solutions over physical pay stations.

How to Use ParkMobile:

• Download the ParkMobile app on your smartphone, or access the ParkMobile website from your browser.
• When parking at UCLA, use Zone #2500, which designates visitor spaces across the campus. This zone allows visitors with DP placards or DP license plates to park in any available accessible or general parking space (as long as it complies with DP regulations).
• The app will prompt you to enter your license plate number, so ensure that the information is correct to avoid parking violations.

Benefits of Using ParkMobile:

• Pay from anywhere: One of the key benefits of ParkMobile is that you don’t need to visit a pay station. You can pay for parking right from your car, or even while walking to your destination.
• Extend your parking session: If you need to stay longer than initially planned, ParkMobile allows you to extend your parking session remotely, without returning to your vehicle.

Important Notes:

• A service fee applies to all ParkMobile transactions, which is added to the cost of your tag.
• Refunds are not available for ParkMobile transactions, so ensure that you select the correct parking time and location before confirming your purchase.

3. Bruin ePermit Portal (Guest Login Required)

For visitors who prefer to manage their tags online, the Bruin ePermit Portal offers a user-friendly platform where tags can be purchased and managed. This option is particularly useful for those who plan to visit UCLA frequently or for extended periods, as it allows for easier permit renewals and management.

How to Use the Bruin ePermit Portal:

• To get started, visitors must create a Guest Account on the Bruin ePermit Portal. This account will generate an automatic Guest ID that can be used to track and manage parking records at UCLA.
• Once your vehicle is registered in the system, you don’t need to re-enter your license plate information each time you purchase a permit. The system remembers your vehicle details, making future purchases quick and convenient.

DP License Plate Considerations:

• If your vehicle is equipped with a DP license plate, be sure to include the DP designation when entering your license plate number into the system (e.g., "DP1234"). This ensures that the system recognizes your vehicle as eligible for accessible parking.
• With a valid DP placard or DP license plate, you are permitted to park in areas beyond the specific zone for which you purchased your permit. This added flexibility allows you to park closer to your destination, provided you follow DP regulations.

Additional Benefits of the Bruin ePermit Portal:

• Easy renewal: The Bruin ePermit Portal streamlines the permit renewal process, allowing you to extend your parking permit online without needing to visit a pay station or make a new purchase each time.
• Vehicle management: If you drive multiple vehicles, you can add and manage each vehicle’s details within the portal, simplifying the process for future visits.

Conclusion

UCLA provides multiple convenient payment options for visitors with disabled placards or license plates, ensuring that parking is accessible and easy to manage. Whether you prefer the simplicity of Self-Service Pay Stations, the convenience of ParkMobile, or the flexibility of the Bruin ePermit Portal, each method is designed to enhance your parking experience on campus.

By understanding the available parking payment options and utilizing the right tools, visitors with disabilities can enjoy a seamless, hassle-free parking experience while visiting The university.

Parking Restrictions

While The university strives to provide accessible and convenient parking for individuals with disabilities, there are certain parking areas and spaces on campus that remain off-limits, even to those with Disabled Placards (DP) or Disabled License Plates. These restrictions are in place to ensure the safety, organization, and proper use of campus parking resources. It’s essential for all visitors, including those with disabilities, to be aware of and comply with these rules to avoid citations and to maintain the integrity of parking services.

Below are the detailed parking restrictions that disabled placard and license plate holders should be mindful of when parking on the university campus:

1. Red Curbs

Red curbs are strictly designated as no parking zones on the university campus. These areas are reserved for emergency vehicles such as fire trucks, ambulances, and other first responders. Parking at a red curb, even temporarily, can block access for emergency vehicles and create dangerous situations during an emergency.

Why Red Curbs Are Restricted:

• Emergency Access: Red zones are intended to remain clear at all times to provide unrestricted access for emergency vehicles.
• Fire Lanes: Many red curbs are also fire lanes, which are critical to fire response efforts. Blocking these areas, even for a short time, can delay emergency response times.

Even with a valid DP placard or DP license plate, parking in red-curb zones is prohibited and may result in immediate citation or towing.

2. Loading Zones

Loading zones are designated areas for short-term loading and unloading of passengers or goods. These areas are often marked with yellow curbs or signs indicating their purpose. Disabled placard and license plate holders are not permitted to park in these zones for extended periods, even if they are using the space for loading or unloading purposes.

Why Loading Zones Are Restricted:

• High Traffic Areas: Loading zones are typically located near busy entrances, buildings, or drop-off points where vehicles need to come and go quickly. Prolonged parking in these areas can disrupt the flow of traffic and prevent others from accessing the loading area.
• Limited Time Use: These areas are specifically designated for temporary use. Even disabled tag holders are not exempt from the time limits imposed on these zones, which are often restricted to a few minutes.

Parking in a loading zone beyond the allowed time frame, or using it as a regular parking spot, is a violation and could lead to fines or towing.

3. Gated Parking Structures

Certain parking structures on The university campus are gated and restricted for specific uses. For example, the Medical Plaza parking structures are primarily intended for patients and medical personnel. While many disabled spaces are available in these structures, access to these areas is typically regulated by gates or permit requirements that may not be overridden by a DP placard or license plate.

Why Gated Parking Structures Are Restricted:

• Reserved for Specific Uses: Gated structures often serve specialized purposes, such as medical staff parking, patient access, or university vehicle storage. Unauthorized vehicles could take up critical space needed for essential services.
• Controlled Access: These structures often have automated gates that require specific permits, access codes, or payment upon exit. While DP placard holders may have access to some areas, other sections remain off-limits unless explicitly authorized.

Parking in these gated structures without the appropriate permit or access may result in a citation, and the gates may not allow entry or exit without proper credentials.

4. University Vehicles Only Stalls

Some parking stalls across campus are specifically marked for University Vehicles Only. These spaces are reserved for UCLA-owned and operated vehicles that are used for official university business, such as maintenance trucks, security vehicles, or campus shuttle buses.

Why University Vehicles Only Stalls Are Restricted:

• Official Use: These spaces are reserved for university-owned vehicles that perform essential campus services, such as facilities maintenance, landscaping, and public safety operations. Keeping these spaces clear ensures that these vehicles can perform their duties without delay.
• Proximity to Work Areas: These parking stalls are often located near essential work areas or operational hubs. Unauthorized parking in these spaces can disrupt university operations and prevent access for staff who need these vehicles for their jobs.

Even with a DP placard or license plate, individuals are not allowed to park in stalls designated for university vehicles. Unauthorized use of these spaces may result in immediate citation or towing.

5. Unmarked Areas Not Designated as Spaces

Parking is prohibited in unmarked areas that are not specifically designated as spaces. These include:

• Sidewalks or pedestrian pathways.
• Grass or landscaping areas.
• Road shoulders or dirt paths.
• Spaces between parking rows.

Why Unmarked Areas Are Restricted:

• Safety Hazards: Parking in unmarked areas, such as sidewalks or grass, can create hazards for pedestrians, cyclists, and other vehicles. These areas are not designed for parking and could obstruct traffic flow or emergency access.
• Parking Lot Organization: Unmarked areas are not designed to accommodate vehicles. Parking in these areas could lead to congestion or block other vehicles from entering or exiting properly designated spaces.
• Damage to Property: Vehicles parked on grass, landscaping, or dirt paths can cause damage to campus property. These areas are typically maintained for aesthetic or functional purposes and are not meant to support vehicle traffic.

Parking in an unmarked area, even briefly, is a violation of UCLA’s parking regulations and may result in a citation or towing.

Conclusion: Complying with Parking Restrictions

While The university provides ample accessible spaces for individuals with DP placards and DP license plates, it’s important to understand and follow the campus’s parking restrictions. These rules are in place to ensure safety, maintain proper parking organization, and provide access to essential services. Failure to comply with these restrictions can lead to citations, fines, or even towing, which can be both inconvenient and costly.

For a smooth and hassle-free parking experience, always refer to campus maps and parking guides, and avoid parking in prohibited areas such as red curbs, loading zones, gated structures, university vehicle-only spaces, or unmarked areas. By adhering to these regulations, you help maintain a fair and accessible parking system for all members of the UCLA community.

At UCLA, faculty and staff members with disabilities are offered a variety of accessible parking options to ensure that they can park conveniently close to their work areas. Employees with a valid Disabled Placard (DP) or Disabled License Plate issued by the DMV can take advantage of both short-term and long-term tags, providing greater flexibility based on individual parking needs. Below is a detailed guide on how UCLA employees can secure the appropriate permits and where they are allowed to park on campus.

How to Purchase Faculty and Staff DP Tags

Faculty and staff members with a DMV-issued DP placard or DP license plate may purchase tags through several options depending on their desired duration and frequency of parking. The process for purchasing a permit is simple and is done through the Bruin ePermit Portal.

1. Bruin ePermit Portal (UCLA Credentials Required)

The Bruin ePermit Portal is the primary method for The university employees to purchase and manage their tags. To access this portal, faculty and staff must log in using their UCLA credentials. This online system allows you to purchase various types of permits, including:

• Monthly Auto-Renew Permits: Ideal for long-term parking, this option allows your permit to automatically renew each month, ensuring that you always have a valid tag without needing to manually repurchase it.

• Short-Term Permits: These permits are perfect for employees who do not park on campus daily or who may have fluctuating schedules. They offer flexible, shorter durations, such as daily or weekly permits.

• Quarterly Permits: For faculty and staff members who prefer to pay for parking on a quarterly basis, this option allows you to purchase a permit for a specific academic quarter, providing convenience without the need for monthly renewal.

• Daily Permits: If you only need to park on campus occasionally, the daily permit option provides flexibility for those who may not require long-term parking arrangements.

Once you have purchased any of these valid permits, you are entitled to park in accessible areas on campus, provided that your DP placard or DP license plate is properly displayed on your vehicle.

2. Where Faculty and Staff Can Park with a DP Placard

In addition to standard spaces, the university offers designated parking areas that are more accessible for those with disabilities. By purchasing any of the valid permits listed above and displaying your DP placard or license plate, you can park in the following areas:

• Blue Permit Areas: These areas are reserved for individuals with disabilities and provide closer proximity to buildings and campus facilities, ensuring convenient access. Blue Permit areas are strategically placed near key academic and administrative buildings for easier mobility.

• X-Permit Areas: X-permit parking areas provide additional flexibility for faculty and staff, offering a wider range of accessible parking options. These areas are spread across campus, allowing for more choices depending on your destination.

If you require specific assistance or need help selecting the best parking option for your needs, you may contact your Departmental Commute Coordinator. They can provide detailed information about long-term permits and assist with any parking-related questions or concerns.

Important Parking Regulations for Faculty and Staff with Disabled Placards

While the university offers a variety of accessible parking options for faculty and staff with disabilities, it is essential to adhere to the campus’s specific parking regulations to avoid citations. Here are some important reminders about where you cannot park, even with a DP placard or license plate:

• Red Zones: These are strictly reserved for emergency vehicles and must remain clear at all times. Parking in red zones is prohibited, as it can obstruct access for first responders during emergencies.

• Loading Zones: Loading zones are designated for short-term loading and unloading of passengers or goods. Extended parking in these zones is not permitted, as it can block access for other vehicles that need to use the space for loading or unloading.

• Gated Parking Structures (e.g., Medical Plaza, STR 37): These structures may be restricted to specific groups, such as medical personnel, patients, or university vehicles. Even with a DP placard, you must adhere to the access restrictions for these gated areas unless you have specific authorization to park there.

• University Vehicles Only Stalls: These spaces are reserved for UCLA-owned vehicles that are used for official business purposes, such as maintenance, security, or transportation services. Unauthorized parking in these spaces can result in a citation or towing.

• Unmarked Areas: Parking in unmarked areas that are not designated as parking stalls is prohibited. This includes sidewalks, grass, pathways, or any area that does not have a clearly marked parking spot.

Failure to comply with these parking restrictions may result in citations, fines, or even vehicle towing. It is important to familiarize yourself with campus maps and signage to ensure that you are parking in designated areas that comply with UCLA’s parking regulations.

Benefits of Using the Bruin ePermit Portal

One of the key advantages of the Bruin ePermit Portal is the ease and convenience it provides for faculty and staff with disabilities. By using this system, you can:

• Manage Permits Online: You can easily purchase, renew, or cancel your tags directly from the portal without needing to visit a physical office. This is especially helpful for managing long-term permits, as the system allows you to set up auto-renewal or make changes to your parking plan as needed.

• Access Multiple Permit Types: Depending on your parking needs, you can choose from a variety of permit options that best suit your schedule and frequency of campus visits. Whether you need a monthly, quarterly, or daily permit, the Bruin ePermit Portal offers flexibility.

• No Need to Display Physical Permits: Once your vehicle’s license plate is registered in the system, UCLA’s parking enforcement uses license plate recognition technology to verify your permit status. This eliminates the need to physically display a permit on your windshield, making the process more streamlined.

Conclusion

The university provides a robust and accessible parking system for faculty and staff members with disabilities. With a valid DP placard or DP license plate, employees can enjoy a variety of parking options, including access to convenient Blue Permit and X-Permit areas. By utilizing the Bruin ePermit Portal, faculty and staff can manage their parking needs efficiently and ensure that they are compliant with campus regulations.

It is important to always follow the specific parking guidelines, avoid restricted zones, and contact your Departmental Commute Coordinator for assistance with long-term permit options. By adhering to these rules and making use of the available resources, you can ensure a smooth and accessible parking experience at UCLA.

Student Disabled Parking (DP) Permits

Registered UCLA students with valid DP placards or license plates must submit a Special Permit Request through the Bruin ePermit Portal. Upon approval, students can purchase their permits and associate them with their vehicle. To avoid citations, always display both a valid UCLA tag and a DP placard/license plate when parking.

BruinAccess Paratransit Services

For additional support, UCLA offers BruinAccess, a complimentary paratransit service that provides curb-to-curb transportation around campus. The service operates on weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is available to individuals with disabilities. Seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and more information, including service areas, can be found on the BruinAccess map.

Disabled Parking Misuse and Citations

All parking regulations at UCLA are enforced under the California Vehicle Code and The university Parking Regulations. If you receive a citation and believe it was issued in error, you have the right to appeal within 21 days. Submit the following documents along with your appeal:

• A clear copy of your DP placard/license plate.
• DMV registration for the placard/license plate.
• A copy of the placard holder’s driver’s license.

If you are not the placard/license plate owner, provide a signed statement from the registered owner explaining their reason for appealing the citation. Failure to appeal within the designated time will result in additional late fees.

For citation inquiries, contact the Citation Review and Adjudication Office directly, as they handle all citation-related matters.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure a seamless and compliant parking experience at The university . Accessible parking is a priority on campus, and we strive to make your visit as convenient and equitable as possible.