As a student at the University of Arkansas, managing your transportation needs is essential. With over 28,000 students and 1,200 acres of campus, navigating the university’s vast expanse can be challenging. Fortunately, the university offers a comprehensive parking system to cater to the diverse needs of its students.
Parking Permits
Obtaining a parking permit is the first step towards securing a designated parking space on campus. The university offers various permit options based on student status, vehicle type, and preferred parking areas.
Student Permits:
- Resident Student Permit: Valid for all resident students living on or off-campus.
- Commuter Student Permit: Designed for non-resident students commuting to campus.
- Graduate Student Permit: Exclusively for graduate students enrolled in at least six credit hours.
Vehicle Types:
- Car Permit: Standard permit for passenger vehicles.
- Motorcycle Permit: Discounted permit for motorcycles.
- Compact Vehicle Permit: Available for vehicles that meet specific size requirements.
Parking Zones and Locations
The university divides its campus into six designated parking zones:
| Zone | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Central Campus | Most restricted zone, primarily for faculty and staff |
| Zone 2 | South Campus | Moderate restrictions, accessible to students with Zone 2 permits |
| Zone 3 | East Campus | Less restrictive zone, ideal for commuter students |
| Zone 4 | Northeast Campus | Limited availability, primarily for faculty, staff, and visitors |
| Zone 5 | West Campus | Reserved for Zone 5 permit holders and event attendees |
| Zone 6 | East Stadium Drive | Designated area for gameday parking |
Parking Rates
Permit prices vary depending on the type of permit, parking zone, and duration of use:
| Permit Type | Zone 1 | Zone 2 | Zone 3 | Zone 4 | Zone 5 | Zone 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Resident Student Annual | $250 | $175 | $125 | $100 | $100 | $75 |
| Commuter Student Annual | $150 | $100 | $75 | $50 | $50 | $25 |
| Graduate Student Annual | $175 | $125 | $100 | $75 | $75 | $50 |
| Daily Parking | $10 | $7 | $5 | $3 | $3 | $2 |
Parking Enforcement
The university strictly enforces its parking regulations to maintain order and ensure fair access to parking spaces. Vehicles parked without proper permits or in unauthorized areas are subject to ticketing and fines:
| Violation | Fine |
|---|---|
| Parking without a permit | $25 |
| Parking in a restricted zone | $50 |
| Parking in a handicap space without a permit | $250 |
Alternative Transportation
In addition to traditional parking options, the university encourages students to explore alternative transportation methods:
- On-Campus Shuttles: Free shuttle buses provide transportation between different campus areas.
- Razorback Transit: The city of Fayetteville offers a public transportation system that includes bus routes serving the university.
- Cycling: The university has extensive bike paths and supports the use of bicycles for commuting and recreation.
- Ride-Sharing: Mobile apps like Uber and Lyft offer ride-sharing services to supplement transportation needs.
Tips for Finding Parking
With a limited number of parking spaces available, finding a spot can be challenging during peak hours. Here are some tips to maximize your chances of securing a parking space:
- Arrive Early: Avoid the rush by arriving on campus early, especially during the first few weeks of the semester.
- Explore Different Zones: Consider parking in less popular zones like Zone 3 or 4 to increase your chances of finding an open space.
- Park and Ride: Utilize the on-campus shuttle system to park in Zone 3 and commute to your destination on campus.
- Ride-Share or Carpool: Coordinate with friends or classmates to share rides and minimize the number of vehicles on campus.
- Consider Alternative Transportation: Explore alternative transportation options like cycling or using Razorback Transit to reduce your reliance on parking spaces.