What is the general timeline?

Pilot is proposed to be implemented in the spring of 2026 pending city commission approval.

Pilot Residential Parking
Permit Program

The RPP program is designed to manage on-street parking in residential neighborhoods where demand exceeds supply, often due to nearby commercial areas, universities, or transit hubs. This program helps ensure residents have access to parking while balancing the needs of businesses and visitors.

Objectives

  • Preserve Residential Parking
    Limits non-resident parking, ensuring residents have priority access.

  • Reduce Congestion & Improve Mobility
    Prevents excessive vehicle circulation and reduces traffic.

  • Enhance Safety & Quality of Life
    Reduces illegal parking practices that pose safety hazards.

  • Promote Alternative Transportation
    Encourages public transit, biking, and walking.

Pilot Program Details

This pilot phase will help assess real-world impacts, gather feedback, and refine policies before full implementation.

Key Benefits

  • Data-Driven Decisions
    Provides insights into parking demand and enforcement challenges.

  • Community Engagement
    Residents and businesses can offer feedback to shape the final program.

  • Flexibility & Adjustments
    Modifications can be made before permanent adoption.

  • Cost & Resource Evaluation
    Determines financial sustainability and staffing needs.

  • Public Awareness & Education
    Allows time to inform residents about rules and benefits.

  • Risk Mitigation
    Identifies potential issues, such as parking displacement, for proactive solutions.

  • Stronger Policy Development
    Ensures the final program reflects community needs.

RPP Presentation
Parking Enforcement Staff

In-Person Assistance

If you don’t have access to a computer, apply in person.

Parking Services Office 933 New Hampshire Street
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Phone: (785) 832-7590 

Parking Enforcement Staff

Restrictions & Enforcement

Restriction Times: Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Excluding city-observed holidays)

Important: Vehicles parked in the RPP zone without a valid permit are subject to parking citations. 

Enforcement Assistance

Parking staff will be periodically patrolling the RPP zone when staffing level allows. During the duration of the pilot program, staffing levels and patrolling frequency may vary depending on absences and additional enforcement responsibilities.

Call response times may vary depending on availability

For more information, visit our website or contact the Parking Services Office. Thank you for your cooperation as we test and refine this program!

Community Outreach

Future Engagement

Formal approval in early 2026 TBD

Past Engagements

May 21st, 2025

University Place association (UPNA) open meeting

May 5th, 2025

University place association (UPNA) one on one meeting with President and board member

April 17th, 2025

LAN RPP Presentation

Survey Results

Here are the results of the survey for residents of the University Place neighborhood. The feedback received from this survey will help inform the Pilot Residential Parking Permit Program for the City of Lawrence.

Apply for Permit

Applications are not yet active until the pilot program is approved by the City Commission.

For additional questions related to the application process, please call parking services at (785) 832-7590.

  • Create an Account
  • Select the Correct Permit: Choose "Residential Parking Permit." Or “Visitor Residential Parking Permit”
  • Vehicles with valid ADA placards are NOT required to have a permit
  • Provide Proof of Residence. Upload one of the following:
    • Driver’s License (with current RPP zone address)
    • Vehicle Registration
    • Lease or Rental Agreement
    • Utility Bill (must show applicant’s name and address)

Parking Restrictions

  • Parking is FREE for the first 2 hours in the pilot RPP zone. Short-term visitors or service providers do not require a permit. If service or personal contractor is expected to be longer than 2 hours, a visitor permit must be linked to one of the (5) Visitor Permits to avoid citations.

  • Utility vehicles (gas companies, electrical, city vehicles, or any subcontractors) and first responders (police, fire, medical) on official business are exempt from non-safety violations.

  • A maximum of four (4) Full-Time Permits are allowed per qualifying address.

  • Each address can have five (5) Visitor Permits valid for 48 hours per use. Permits must be linked to visitor license plate in permit portal to avoid citations.

  • Abuse of the RPP permits will not be tolerated and may result in immediate revoking of parking rights within the neighborhood or RPP zone.