Picture this. You're driving along downtown, taking in the local murals, seeing our history, but now you decide to park. You don't know whether or not to pick a private or public parking lot, along with the various fees + prices.

Don't worry, that's what we're here for. Did you know that the city has a couple of programs to help make parking downtown easier?

Let's break it down.

Parking permits

Do you drive an electric or hybrid vehicle? There's a parking permit program for you. Here are the details:

Hybrid/EV placard vehicles are allowed to park for free at downtown street parking meters or street pay station (not to exceeding the limit of the meter or pay station)
Not valid at city garages and lots
An application must be completed and submitted in-person at the Parking Division
The program is free
Valid one per vehicle owner

Do you live downtown? There's a program for you too. The Residential Parking Permit allows residential parking in designated zones during high-traffic events in adjacent neighborhoods. Here are the qualifying residential zones:

North Flores district
Arsenal district
Lavaca district
Perry Court area

Residents in these areas will be notified by mail when to apply or renew their permit. Apply here.

Disabled Parking

The city also offers free, short-term parking (less than 24 hours) for individuals who have the following state issued disabled parking permit or special state issued plates:

Disabled Placard
Disabled Plate
Disabled Veteran Plates
Military awards

Valid at city operated lots, garages, meters, and pay stations.

Downtown Tuesday offers free parking every Tuesday from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. at city-operated parking garages, parking lots, and parking meters. Use this interactive map for garages and more spots.

Pro tip: Download the SAPark App for easy convenience and paying on the go.