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As your student prepares for the upcoming academic year at South, understanding the university's parking system is an important part of ensuring a smooth transition to campus life. USA uses a zoned parking system designed to reduce congestion, promote safety, and ensure fair access to parking across campus. Whether your student is commuting or living on campus. Whether your student is commuting or living on campus, here's what you and our student should know.

When is Zone Parking Enforced?

• Fall & Spring Semesters: Zone parking is enforced Monday through Friday, 7:00am-3:45pm
• Residential Areas (including Beta/Gamma, Traditions, Central House): Parking is enforced 24/7
• Summer Semester: No zone enforcement, but students must park in white-lined spots only
• After 3:45pm students with a valid permit may park in any white-lined commuter space
• Gameday Parking is subject to change these parking regulations, with the exception of Residential Parking

Parking Permits: A Must-Have

A valid USA parking permit must be displayed on the driver's side window at all times when parked on campus. Permits are required for every student vehicle, whether commuting or living on campus. Permits for Fall 2025 are available starting August 1, 2025.

👉Get a Parking Permit

👉Request Handicap Parking Verification

Understanding Parking Zones

USA's parking zones help balance the demand between residents, commuters, faculty, and staff.

Residential Parking Zones

For students living in:

• Epsilon I & II, Delta 3-6, Azalea, Camellia, Stokes, and Greek Housing -> Residential Zone Permit
• Beta/Gamma -> Beta/Gamma Permit
• Traditions and Central House -> Specific permits for their residence

Important note:

• Residential students may not parking in commuter zones before 3:45pm
• Commuter students or guests may never park in residential zones, including Beta/Gamma, Traditions, or Central House*
  • * Some Gameday Parking includes the Beta/Gamma zone

Commuter Parking Zones

Students living off-campus choose a commuter zone that best fits their class schedule. Options include:

• South Zone: Laidlaw, Mitchell College of Business, HKS, Shelby Hall
• Central Zone: South Humanities, South Chemistry, Science Laboratory, Communications, Student Center and Bookstore
• East Zone: Biomedical Library, Simulation Lab, Mathematical Sciences and Physics Building, College of Medicine, Health Sciences, Visual Arts, Auxiliary Northeast Lot
• North Zone: Marx Library, North Chemistry, North Humanities

Choose wisely! Permits are valid for the full academic year.

Special Parking Areas

• Mitchell Center Lot: Open to commuter students only when no events are scheduled.
• Meisler Hall Lot: For tour visitors only - no student parking.
• Patient Parking: Only for students with clinic appointments and a valid patient pass.
• Visitor Parking: For non-affiliated guests with an official visitor permit

Common Parking Mistakes to Avoid

To help your student avoid fines, tows, or disciplinary action, remind them of these key rules:

• Park only in white-lined spaces (blue=faculty/staff, red=fire lanes, yellow=no parking)
• Do not drive from residential areas to class during zone hours (7:00am-3:45pm)
• Don't park in closed or coned-off lots like the Mitchell Center during events.
• Visitor passes may not be used by students under any circumstance.
• Students with $200 or more in unpaid tickets will have registration holds and cannot receive diplomas until paid.

👉View Full Parking Regulations

👉Parking Zone Map

JagTran and Alternative Transportation

Walking, biking, or using the JagTran Shuttle is strongly encouraged - especially for residential students needing to access commuter areas like the Dining Hall or academic buildings. JagTran also stops at the Auxiliary West and Northeast lots, which serve as overflow parking and offer convenient connections to campus.

Game Day & Event Parking

On game days or large events at Hancock Whitney Stadium or the Mitchell Center:

• Parking lots near Greek Housing and Auxiliary West may be closed to all vehicles (including residents).
• Unauthorized vehicles may be towed at the owner's expense.
  • Check with USA Athletics or university announcements for closure times.

Questions or Need Help?

USA's Parking Services is available to help students and families navigate the process:

• Office Hours: Monday-Friday, 7:30am-4:30pm
• Phone: 251-461-1481
• Email: parkingservices@southalabama.edu

Final Thoughts for Families

We know parking policies might not be the most exciting part of college, but helping your student understand them can save time, money, and stress. Encourage your student to plan ahead, park smart, and use alternative transportation options when possible. Following the rules not only avoids fines, but also helps keep campus safe and accessible for everyone.