Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage city, with historic streets that were not designed for heavy car traffic.
Parking on campus or at the University's city buildings is limited and requires a permit Monday to Friday between 8am and 5pm.
Outside of these hours no payment or permits are required.
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 to purchase a University parking permit.
You must be able to present:
- your vehicle insurance documents, including certificate of motor insurance
- some proof of address that verifies your term-time residence, like a recent home utility bill or signed rental agreement
If you live with family members and cannot provide a rental agreement or utility bill, you should provide evidence that you are on the council tax bill at that address.
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, 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 get an Exempt permit. This allows you to park in any of the disabled parking spaces free of charge.
Register your vehicle details and we will issue you with an Exempt permit. You must display this with your Blue Badge.
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. Complete this form to apply.
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 if required.
Renewing your exceptional circumstances student permit
If approved, your permit is valid for the relevant academic year. You will need to reapply before the start of the next academic year.
Renewal approvals are not guaranteed and are subject to availability and demand at the time of application.
Courtesy and temporary vehicles
If you use a courtesy or temporary replacement vehicle, update your permit online to avoid a parking fine.
Parking for athletes
Using the Sports Training Village
If you are an athlete using the Sports Training Village as a training centre, you may be eligible to apply for a parking permit in certain circumstances.
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.
Payment
If your application for a parking permit is approved, you will receive an email confirmation.
You can then pay for your permit online.