Time limits, freebies, and extra parking zones are just some of things that people outside the city (and some inside) don't have a clear idea about.

Parking in Portland has probably become the most stressful part of visiting Maine's biggest city. For those that spend time living within city limits, watching out-of-staters and out-of-towners attempt to read and assess the various signs and parking rules in Portland can either drive you insane or leave you with a chuckle. We've decided to make a few things nice and easy for those that are still foggy.

SUNDAY PARKING IS FREE

I know it's hard to believe that an entire city would take a full day off from handing out parking tickets but its true. 100% true. This only applies to meter spots and loading zones (which we'll get to later) and doesn't apply to most of the parking garages in the city. There are a couple however, that do offer free weekend parking but its hit and miss.


BEFORE 9.A.M AND AFTER 6 P.M., THOSE METER SPOTS ARE FREE!

Parking2
loading...

The City of Portland doesn't want to overwork their meter maids so there's plenty of time for on-street parking where it won't cost you a dime. In fact, with the new digital parking meters, even if you show up early to park and pay, the time can be used for when it "officially counts". ex: If you park at 8 a.m. and feed the meter for an hour, you can display your valid ticket until 10 a.m. Not bad!


THOSE COMMERCIAL LOADING ZONES ARE UP FOR GRABS AFTER 6 P.M.

Parking3
loading...

The commercial trucks probably aren't excited that we're writing this but the truth is the truth. That loading zone across from Bull Feeney's? Prime parking after 6 p.m. for any Old Port visitor. There's also at least a dozen other loading/commercial zones that you can park in. Keep in mind, you won't want to press your luck overnight in those zones or else...


DON'T PARK ON FORE STREET PAST 9 P.M. IF YOU CAN HELP IT

If you're someone that likes to tear up the town, be careful where you're parking past 9 p.m. We just told you that commercial loading zones are free for your evening needs, but spots along Fore St. become tow away zones in the blink of an eye. Don't be that person running down the street as your car rides away on a flatbed. You won't win that argument.


 

While these parking hints are helpful, nothing is completely set in stone. Additionally, disabled parking spots are never up for grabs for non-disabled vehicles at any time on any day. The parking battle royale rages on! Good luck!

 

More From 94.9 WHOM