Resident permit guidelines

How does the system work?

In many residential areas throughout West Berkshire there is often competition for the available on-street parking spaces, particularly in the residential areas where there are no off-street parking facilities. West Berkshire Council has devised Residents' Parking Schemes designed to provide local residents with on-street parking in the areas around their homes.

The aim is to: 

• give residents priority over others for available space
• improve access to and reduce obstruction in the residential streets

The zone will be clearly marked with signs and road markings. Residents living in one of the designated areas may apply for a permit to park on the street in that area. If motorists without a permit park in the spaces during the operational hours they could be issued a Penalty Charge Notice from the Council's Civil Enforcement Officers who will be enforcing the regulations.

Can I use the permit in other areas?

No, the permit is valid only in the area for which it is issued. It cannot be used in another parking zone in your town or in any other town.

How many permits can I apply for?

The council has set a maximum of two permits per property, but this reduced by each available off-street parking space you have. The allocation of two permits per household may be reviewed in exceptional circumstances and each case will be treated on its individual circumstances.

Do all properties in the zone qualify? 

Newly-built or converted properties are excluded from joining the resident permit scheme. This applies to all properties built and occupied after 1 April 2012. This is essential to protect existing residents as there would not be enough available on-street parking space to meet demand. At this time, many zones are already at capacity in terms of the number of resident permits issued versus the total number of available spaces.

Newly-built or converted properties must be self-sufficient in terms of the parking provided. The associated planning application should detail if any parking is to be provided with the property. The resident permit scheme will not form part of this provision. Potential residents will need to assess the impact this may have and whether the property will be suitable for their needs.

Can I park in front of my house? 

While we have made as many spaces available as possible, we are not able to reserve spaces or to guarantee that you will be able to park immediately outside your home. However, by restricting the parking to residents only, you should find it easier to find a space nearby.

How long is the permit valid for?

Permits are valid for one year from date of purchase and renewed annually.

What if i change my vehicle during the period?

When you change your vehicle you must log into your MiPermit account where you can manually edit the registration. This can also be done over the phone by calling 0345 520 7007. There is no charge for this service.

What about visitors?

Resident Visitor Permits will be available. These permits enable a vehicle to park for one calendar day. These are also purchased through MiPermit.

A maximum of 200 visitors permits can be issued per property and these run per calendar (1^st January - 31^st December).

Do I have to apply for a permit?

If you are a resident in the area and if you regularly park your vehicle on the road in the designated area then you must apply for a permit to park in these areas. The Council's Civil Enforcement Officers will be regularly patrolling the area and you may expect to be issued with a Penalty Charge Notice every time your vehicle is found parked without a permit in the resident parking areas. Drivers with a Blue Badge will need to obtain a permit if they wish to park within the residents' designated parking bays.

Can I park on yellow lines?

No, residents' parking permits only allow you to park within the designated spaces; you must comply with all other parking restrictions.

How do I apply for a permit?

A 'virtual' permit system is now in operation called 'MiPermit'. Please visit the MiPermit website where an account can be created. Resident permits and Visitor permits can then be purchased.

Virtual permits can also be purchased on the telephone by calling 0345 520 7007. 

Please see conditions of issue, for further information.