ORLANDO, Fla. – Disabled decals can be a big boon for drivers who need special accommodations, giving them access to special parking spots that make it easier for them to get around.
But one viewer earlier this year recently told News 6, “I heard a rumor that if you have a disabled parking decal you can park for free on the street.”
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Is it true?
Well, it turns out the answer is yes — though that comes with some caveats.
Under state law, local governments aren’t allowed to exact fees for a public metered parking space if the vehicle displays a disabled parking permit.
However, this only applies for four hours. After that, the vehicle is subject to regular parking rules (unless the local government has opted to extend that timeframe).
It’s also important to note these rules don’t apply to private parking lots or garages, so be sure to keep an eye out.
The state law also includes some other rules for airports.
While publicly operated airports may still charge for parking vehicles with disabled decals, they must grant free parking to a vehicle:
- with a license plate for disabled veterans issued under state law.
- with specialized equipment, such as ramps, lifts, or foot or hand controls, for use by someone with a disability
- displaying a Florida Toll Exemption permit
