Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage city, with historic streets that were not designed for heavy car traffic.
There is no parking available for students on campus or at the University's city buildings from 8am to 5pm Monday to Friday, unless you are eligible for an exceptional circumstances permit.
There is no permit required to park on campus outside of these hours, but there is a charge at weekends.
Students living in University accommodation
If you are a student living in University accommodation, on or off campus, you are not permitted to park a motor vehicle:
- on University property
- on public roads within the city of Bath boundaries
Students living within the BA1 or BA2 postcodes
If you live within the BA1 or BA2 postcode areas, you are not permitted to park a motor vehicle on University property.
Parking on public roads within the city of Bath boundaries is limited and often expensive. Many residential areas require permits and have a limit of two per property. Many newly built or purpose built accommodation buildings are not eligible for permits.
We advise checking BANES guidance and your private rental agreement before bringing a car.
Students living outside of the BA1 or BA2 postcodes
If you live outside the BA1 or BA2 postcode areas, you can apply for a University parking permit.
You must be able to present your vehicle insurance documents, including certificate of motor insurance and driving license with term time address.
You must also present one of these document to evidence proof of your address:
- current tenancy agreement showing your name and term-time address
- letting agent or landlord confirmation on an official letterhead confirming occupancy at the address
- council tax bill with you as a named as resident
If you are unable to provide any of the above, we will accept two of the following, dated in the last three months:
- bank or building society statement (transactions may be redacted)
- mobile phone bill
- utility bill
- GP registration confirmation or NHS correspondence
- Student Finance correspondence
- insurance documentation
- official government correspondence
We reserve the right to:
- request additional information in support of any application
- verify the information provided with landlords, letting agents, accommodation providers or other relevant organisations
- conduct random audits of parking permit applications
Where evidence is found to be inaccurate, misleading or fraudulent, permits may be withdrawn.
If approved, your permit is valid for the relevant academic year.
You will need to reapply before the start of the next academic year. Up to date documentation is required for renewal or change of vehicle.
Renewal approvals are not guaranteed and are subject to availability and demand at the time of application.
You can apply for your permit online. The Parking Office will then contact you about your application.
Postgraduate Research students
If you are a postgraduate research student not living in university accommodation, you can apply for a University parking permit.
You can apply for your permit online. The Parking Office will then contact you about your application.
Exempt permits for Blue Badge holders
If you have a Blue Badge you will need to register for an Exempt permit. This allows you to park in any of the disabled parking spaces free of charge.
You will need to register your vehicle details with the parking office.
Registering allows us to contact you if there is a problem with your car or if we need you to move it in an emergency.
Student permits for exceptional circumstances
Permits may be granted in exceptional circumstances, such as a long term condition or disability.
- Current students need to sign in and complete the Exceptional Circumstances Student Parking Application form.
- New students planning to start their studies in September 2026 will need to complete the new student Exceptional circumstances form.
All applications for permits on exceptional grounds are reviewed on a case by case basis and approval is not guaranteed. We reserve the right to request additional evidence or information if required.
Renewing your exceptional circumstances student permit
If approved, your permit is valid for part of or the whole relevant academic year. You will need to reapply before the start of the next academic year or extension for a current year permit.
Renewal approvals are not guaranteed and are subject to availability and demand at the time of application.
Parking for athletes
Living in University managed accommodation
If you are an athlete who has accepted a room in University managed accommodation, on or off campus, you are not permitted to bring a car and will not be issued a parking permit.
You will need to travel to campus using public transport, bicycle or share lifts with athletes not living in University accommodation.
Living in private sector accommodation
If you are an athlete renting in the private sector, you will only be granted a parking permit if you study or train at the University of Bath and can demonstrate that you are a UK Sport funded Podium or Podium Potential athlete.
Parking permit applications are only considered upon receipt of confirmation of university place, acceptance into the Dual Career Programme and evidence to support your UK Sport Podium or Podium Potential status.
If you believe you are eligible for an athlete parking permit, contact athlete-support@bath.ac.uk.
Bath has several resident parking schemes. If you live within a restricted parking zone, you may also need to apply for a Residents Parking Permit.
Courtesy and temporary vehicles
If you use a courtesy or temporary replacement vehicle, update your permit online to avoid a parking fine.
Payment
If your application for a parking permit is approved, you will receive an email confirmation.
You can then pay for your permit online.
Parking permit appeals
If you wish to appeal a parking permit decision you will need to write to campusservices@bath.ac.uk.