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Accessible Parking in Nanaimo

Who Can Use Accessible Parking

To use accessible parking spaces or receive parking exemptions, drivers must clearly display a valid SPARC parking permit.

On‑Street Pay Parking (City‑Owned)

If you are parking on the street in a City of Nanaimo pay parking area:

  • Payment is not required when a valid SPARC permit is displayed.
  • The exemption applies for the posted time limit.
  • All City on‑street pay parking areas are 2‑hour zones.
  • You may park in any available space, not only designated accessible spaces.

Off‑Street Parking Lots and Parkades (City‑Owned)

If you are parking in a City‑owned parking lot or parkade:

  • You receive a 4‑hour exemption from payment.
  • A valid SPARC permit must be displayed.

This exemption only applies to City‑owned facilities.

How to Tell if a Lot Is City‑Owned

  • Check the posted signs for a reference to the City of Nanaimo.
  • If there is no reference to the City, the lot is likely privately owned.
    • In private lots or parkades, payment is required.

When Accessible Spaces Are Full

If no designated accessible parking spaces are available:

  • SPARC permit holders may park for free in any non‑reserved City parking space.
  • Parking is allowed for the time shown on the posted signs in that area.

Learn More About SPARC Permits

For information about official accessible parking permits, visit the Nanaimo Disability Resource Centre (NDRC) website.

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Accessible Parking Information

Last updated: April 22, 2026

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