ORLANDO, Fla. – News 6 traffic safety expert Trooper Steve answers viewer questions and shares tips about the rules of the road, helping Central Florida residents become better drivers by being better educated.
Trooper Steve on Thursday was asked, “I heard a rumor that if you have a disabled parking decal you can park for free on the street. (Is that true?)”
Many Florida drivers are unaware of a little-known accommodation in state law that allows vehicles displaying a valid disabled parking permit or specialty license plate to park at on-street parking meters without paying — for a limited time.
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Under Florida law 316.1964, drivers who properly display a current disabled parking placard or disabled veteran license plate may park at public, on-street metered parking spaces for free for up to four hours.
The exemption applies only to public, on-street meters and does not override posted time limits, loading zones, no-parking areas or local restrictions. Private parking lots and parking garages are not required to honor the exemption unless specifically posted.
The placard or license plate must be valid, clearly visible and issued to the person using it. Misuse, including using someone else’s placard, can result in fines and possible revocation of the permit.
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After four hours, standard parking rules resume, and vehicles may be subject to citation if they remain parked beyond allowed limits.
State officials note that the accommodation is designed to improve accessibility and mobility for drivers with qualifying disabilities while still balancing traffic and parking enforcement needs.
Drivers are encouraged to check local signage and regulations, as cities may enforce additional restrictions consistent with state law.