Resident Student FAQs
Resident Student FAQs
Q. I live on campus. Which parking permit should I purchase?
A. Students living in a residence hall, fraternity, or sorority house should purchase a Resident Permit. Proof of campus residency is required to purchase this permit. Resident permits are specifically designed for students who keep a vehicle on campus overnight and provide access to designated resident parking areas.
Q. Where can I park with a Resident Permit?
A. Resident Permit holders may park in designated Resident (Yellow) parking areas, including:
- Airline Parking Center (Levels 3–5)
- Mustang Parking Center (ALL levels)
- Surface Lots D, G, T, and V
Always check the campus parking map and posted signage, as some parking centers have designated levels for resident parking.
Q. Can I park in commuter parking areas with a Resident Permit?
A. No. Resident Permits are only valid in designated resident parking areas. They are not valid in Commuter North or Commuter South parking locations unless otherwise posted. Parking outside your assigned permit area may result in a citation.
Q. Can I park in visitor parking with a Resident Permit?
A. No. Resident Permits are not valid in visitor parking areas, including ParkMobile spaces or designated visitor levels within parking centers. Payment is required when using visitor parking.
Q. Are there any areas where Resident Permits are never valid?
A. Yes. Resident Permit holders may not park in:
- Employee parking areas
- Visitor parking spaces
- Reserved spaces
- Accessible spaces without a valid state-issued placard or license plate
- Fire lanes
- Service or loading areas
- The SMU Child Care Center parking area
- Bishop Boulevard
Always follow posted signage, as restrictions are enforced year-round.
Q. Do I need to purchase a parking permit if I live on campus but am not bringing a vehicle?
A. No. However, all resident students must log in to the Parking Portal and complete the permit process by either purchasing a Resident Permit or selecting the opt-out option if they will not have a vehicle on campus. This helps the University comply with City of University Park requirements.
Q. Does purchasing a Resident Permit guarantee me a parking space?
A. No. A Resident Permit provides access to designated resident parking areas but does not reserve a specific parking space. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis within the areas authorized for your permit.