Parking Policy

Parking policy consists of local development ordinances and municipal programs that control the design, supply, and price of automobile parking. Once a bluntly-wielded tool of city planners, parking policy is now recognized as a major factor determining city form, the viability of transit services, development density, traffic volumes, and the look and feel of streets.

Surplus parking encourages car ownership and car use, creating induced demand. For example, residential buildings that guarantee off-street parking promote driving over walking and transit.

Outdated parking policies (i.e., generic, suburban-style parking minimums) thwart efforts to provide more transportation choices, reduce vehicle congestion, protect historic buildings, and revitalize downtowns.