Residential Parking Permit policy update
The City of Launceston has introduced a new fee structure for residential parking permits as part of its updated Residential Parking Permit Policy, adopted in March 2025.
The $45 annual fee will now apply to residential car parking permits, aimed at ensuring fair access to on-street parking, covering administrative costs, and encouraging sustainable transport initiatives across the city.
The decision comes after a thorough review of the Residential Parking Permit Policy in 2024. This policy was first established in 1992 to assist residents in areas with limited off-street parking in inner city suburbs.
The revised policy, endorsed by Council, simplifies eligibility, standardises rules city-wide, and introduces a modest annual fee for the first time.
This move aligns with the Council’s broader transport strategy, encouraging responsible car ownership while balancing the needs of residents and the community.
On-street parking is a valuable public resource and the annual fee reflects the community cost of maintaining and managing this amenity. It also helps offset the expenses of administration, enforcement, and maintenance, easing the burden on general ratepayers.
Under the updated policy, permit eligibility remains tied to the number of off-street parking spaces at a property within a specified residential parking area:
• Properties with two or more off-street spaces do not qualify for permits.
• Properties with one off-street space can receive one permit.
• Properties with no off-street parking can receive up to two permits.
The permit allows eligible residents to park in designated residential parking zones without time restrictions, though it does not guarantee a parking space.
For current permit holders, existing permits remain valid until expiry.
Upon renewal, residents will need to reapply and pay the new fee.
Special provisions previously in place for Area N (the zone surrounding the City of Launceston Leisure & Aquatic Centre) have been removed, ensuring consistency across the scheme.
Residents previously deemed ineligible due to their street not being listed as a “residential parking street” are encouraged to contact the Council to reassess their eligibility under the new area-based approach.
Further details, including application processes and a map of designated residential parking areas, will soon be available on the City of Launceston website.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
What is the purpose of residential parking schemes?
Residential parking schemes are implemented to prioritise parking for residents in areas with high parking demand.
Residential parking permits exempt eligible residents from time restrictions. This aims to improve the likelihood of finding parking close to the a permit holder's home as well as balancing the parking needs and demands of the wider community.
Who is eligible for a residential parking permit?
Residents with limited off-street parking can obtain permits under the Residential Parking Permit Policy if they live in areas listed in the Parking Streets Reference Guide. Properties must be in General or Inner Residential Zones as per the Launceston Planning Scheme, unless specified otherwise in the guide.
What changes have been made, and why?
Two key changes have been made as part of the residential parking permit review:
- Simplification and standardisation of permit eligibility. This will create consistency within streets and across areas. It will remove specific exemptions for properties within the current area N.
- Introduction of a permit fee. Properties without off-street parking are typically cheaper than those with parking. This highlights the value that society places on parking. A fee reinforces that street parking carries a community cost and is a privilege, not a right. The fee also covers administrative costs, maintenance, and enforcement, easing the financial burden on general ratepayers.
I currently have a permit - what will change for me? (ALL EXCEPT Area N)
Current permits will remain unchanged. Upon expiry, you must reapply and pay the fee. Over the next 12 months, localised area changes will occur, with a transition period for existing permit holders. Information will be available on the website and provided with issued permits regarding applicable areas.
I currently have a permit - what will change for me? (Area N - Launceston Aquatic)
The existing policy allows all properties in Area N - Launceston Aquatic to receive one residential parking permit, regardless of available spaces. Now, residents must meet the same criteria as other areas; eligibility depends on the number of parking spaces on their property. Upon expiry of your current permit, you must reapply and pay the fee. Permits will be issued annually and will be linked to a specific vehicle.
I have applied in the past - but been told I'm ineligible, should I reapply?
It depends on your situation. If you were ineligible due to having two parking spaces, you remain ineligible. However, if the reason was not being on a "residential parking street," you may now be eligible. Please contact our customer service team for further review.