We recommend that you don't bring a car to Bristol unless it is essential, for example because of a disability. 

If you need to bring a car, you must have successfully applied for a student car parking permit. It is important to note that student car parking and permits are extremely limited. 

Car parking facilities and permits are available in select residences in the North and West Residential Villages. There is no car parking facilities available in the East Residential Village.  

When allocating student car parking permits, priority will be given to students who:

• are a Blue Badge holder (mobility impairment); 
• have a disability or ill health that means they need the use of a car; 
• have caring responsibilities that cannot be performed without a car; and 
• have an academic placement for their course that can only be reached by car.

Student car parking permits allow entry to the residential parking areas, but they do not guarantee a car parking space.  

Types of student car parking permits and costs

Listed in the table are the types of student car parking permits you can apply for, and the residences which have car parking facilities. 

If you are a Blue Badge permit holder, you will receive your permit free of charge.

The main University campus is contained within the Kingsdown Residents’ Parking Scheme area (KRPS) and the majority of on-street parking in and around the campus is subject to residential permits, meters, and time limits.