Seattle parking is a necessary evil of living and visiting this city as there is very little free parking available. Parking rates vary whether you choose street parking or pay lots, and pay lot rates vary depending on location, time of day, or whether there is an event going on.
There are paid lots and garages located on just about every corner. If you are just parking for a few hours, the lot you choose is likely to be based on the lowest rates. If you need to park for 10 hours or more, it’s worth comparing parking rates across different lots. If you are looking for a place with monthly parking, comparing rates, security, and ease of communication with the company is wise to do before you buy.
Seattle Parking Links: Seattle Parking Map | Seattle Parking Garages Map
Common Parking Issues in Seattle
Parking rates can be tricky. Check unattended lot signs especially for rates that may not be clear and don’t hesitate to call the numbers posted on the signage or listed below for clarification on rates—this is a lot easier than coming back to a parking ticket. One common problem is that “early bird specials” usually only last a set amount of time (commonly 10 hours exactly), so if you will be gone longer than the allotted time, make sure you return to pay again.
If you park in a garage, make sure you note if the garage closes. Some garages do close and will lock your car in. Some will come let you out, but will usually charge for this service. Others will make you wait until morning.
Do be aware that not all parking lots are created equal. If you are investing in monthly parking, it’s prudent to check Yelp reviews and research locations to make sure you are not choosing a lot with known security issues.
Street parking in Seattle can be an affordable alternative to pay lots and is managed by the Seattle Department of Transportation. Rates for street parking vary depending on neighborhood, and some areas have parking restrictions during peak hours. Most street parking is paid from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Some neighborhoods have paid parking until 8 p.m. If you park during posted off hours, street parking is free.
Pay for street parking via paystations with a large P on them. Most take both coins and credit/debit cards. Read the instructions and restrictions carefully, including where to display your receipt sticker.
SDOT Contact Information:
Phone: 206-684-5600
Seattle Parking Companies
Locations:
- 1549 7th Avenue, Seattle
- 720 3rd Ave # 1605, Seattle
- 1823 Terry Avenue, Seattle
Contact Information:
General Phone: 877-727-5452
Security Services: 888-687-9616
Locations: Columbia Center Garage | Wells Fargo Center
Contact Information:
Phone: 877-876-2927
International Parking Management
International Parking Management has many locations in Seattle, with many different options, including garage parking, attended and unattended parking, daily and monthly rates.
Contact Information:
505 5th Avenue South, Suite P1
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 206-254-0811
Republic Parking is one of the more ubiquitous pay lot companies in Seattle. Lots vary in cost by location and have daily and monthly rates. This company offers pre-paid Seattle cruise parking and many locations around the city.
Contact Information:
200 West Mercer Street, Suite 103
Seattle, WA 98119
Phone: 206-783-4144
Standard Parking Northwest is one of several companies with pay lots located throughout the Seattle area. Standard Parking has over 55 locations. Rates vary by neighborhood. Monthly parking is available at most lots.
Contact Information:
PO Box 99696
Seattle, WA 98139-0696
Phone: 206-381-8552
