Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question? Email it to csucparking@csuchico.edu
Download our Parking Information Brochure
Click on a question below to view the apropriate answer.
How do I purchase a parking permit?
Permits are sold by Student Financial Services at the start of each semester. The permits sell out quickly, the dates and time the permits go on sale are advertised. For additional information, contact Student Financial Services at 898-5936.
Why do I have to pay for parking?
The parking program is wholly self-supporting, there are no tax payer funds used to fund the parking program. Your purchase of a semester or daily permit enables the University to build and maintain the lots, provide frequent patrols to parked vehicles and purchase supplies and equipment necessary to operate the program.
Am I guaranteed a parking space if I purchase a parking permit?
No. Because of the limited number of parking spaces at CSU Chico, we must maximize the usage of all available parking spaces.
What if I can't come to campus the day parking permits are placed on sale?
You may have a friend, roommate, or relative purchase a permit on your behalf. Be sure to provide them with your full name, social security number, automobile license number, state of registration and payment. An individual may purchase up to two permits at one time.
Have you considered a lottery system to eliminate the long lines to buy a parking permit?
Yes. Investigation has been conducted with other campuses and with vendors who manage such systems. However, it was discovered that many students who definitely need parking (such as those with part time day jobs and others who commute from remote areas) would have no assurance of obtaining a parking permit.
Have you considered selling Residence Hall parking permits in the Housing areas?
Yes. That would be a preferred method. However, the housing program has limited staffing and cashiering authority to conduct such a sale.
Considering the high demand for parking permits, have you considered raising parking permit fees?
Yes. A parking fee increase is currently under consideration.
How many "G" permits are sold each semester?
Approximately 1650.
I have a F/S, R, R1, R2, R3 or R4 parking permit, do I need to purchase a new permit for the new semester?
I f you already have one of these types of parking permits and are on a payroll deduction plan for parking, then you do not have to purchase another permit nor contact Cashiering to continue your parking permit. You are automatically renewed.
I have a semester parking permit, but I forgot it - What can I do?
All vehicles parking in campus lots are required to have a valid parking permit. If you should forget your permit, whether student or faculty/staff, you will need to purchase a temporary permit from one of the campus dispensers. These are currently $1.00 an hour up to 4 hours or $5.00 for the day. These temporary permits are valid in “G” stalls only, no matter what permit you may otherwise hold.
Are there any recent changes in the display of parking permits?
Yes. As of the Fall 2008 semester, all G, A and B parking decals have been changed to a hanging permit. These permits must be displayed from the vehicles rearview mirror with the face (type and expiration date) clearly visible from the front of the vehicle. The permits must hang below any window tint and be clear of any obstructions. Hanging permits displayed in any location other than the rearview mirror may be cited for Improper Display.
This change resulted from cars having dark tinted windows and inconsistent or improper display of the old parking decals.
What if I drive a convertible and don't want to leave the hanging permit exposed?
A very limited number of sticker permits are available for those who drive convertibles. These sticker permits must be placed on the outside, lower driver's side corner of the vehicle's windshield. If the corner space is already obstructed by another sticker or item, the campus parking permit may be adjusted but must still be placed on the drivers's side exterior windshield. The sticker must also be placed in a manner that does not obstruct the view of the vehicle's VIN information.
These sticker permits are only to be used on convertibles and will be a violation of use if placed on non-convertible vehicles.
What is being done to encourage Students, Faculty, and Staff to use alternative forms of transportation?
The Parking Program and Associated Students have partnered to fund the Free Bus Fare program in Butte County for Students, Faculty, and Staff with a valid CSU Chico Wildcat Card. Carpool parking spaces are also designated. Additional and more convenient bike rack parking is being planned. The campus Transportation Committee is continually investigating alternative forms of transportation, not only to alleviate the parking problem, but more importantly to be environmentally responsible.
Why doesn't the University construct another Parking Structure?
The cost of such a structure would require approximately $12,000 per parking stall. At current student parking fees of $150 per year, it would be prohibitive to finance such a structure. A 600 stall parking structure would cost roughly $8 million and would require a substantial increase in parking fees. Available land close to campus is another obstacle. Regardless, the University is continuing to investigate creative financing options for a parking structure or for additional surface lot parking.
I have a large vehicle and cannot easily park in the narrow parking stalls around campus. What can I do?
The 2 new temporary parking lots on 2nd and Orange Street have 9-foot wide parking stalls. Please consider using these parking lots if you have a larger car, truck or SUV.
|