Seattle Moving Parking Permits
Everything you need to know about SDOT temporary parking permits for moving trucks. Avoid tickets, reserve your spot, and move without parking headaches.
Do You Need a Moving Permit?
✓ Get a Permit If:
- • Your street has restricted parking (zones, time limits)
- • You need to block a lane for loading/unloading
- • There's limited street parking in your area
- • You're moving on a busy street (Capitol Hill, Downtown, Belltown)
- • Your building doesn't have a loading dock
⚠️ Maybe Skip If:
- • Residential street with unrestricted parking
- • Private driveway or loading zone available
- • Moving with a small van (not a truck)
- • Very early morning move (before enforcement begins)
$25
Single Day Permit
Most common for residential moves
$50
Multi-Day Permit
Up to 5 consecutive days
5 Days
Minimum Advance Notice
Required processing time
How to Get Your Permit: Step-by-Step
Check If You Need a Permit
Use SDOT's online map tool to see if your street requires permits.
Enter your address to check parking regulations. If you see colored zones or time restrictions, you need a permit.
Apply Online (Recommended)
Apply through the SDOT Street Use Permit Portal.
What you'll need:
- • Your move address(es)
- • Date and time window needed
- • Approximate vehicle size
- • Credit card for payment
Post Signs in Advance
SDOT will either mail you signs or you can pick them up. Post them at least 72 hours before your move.
⚠️ Important: Signs must be posted correctly or vehicles won't be towed. Place them high enough to be visible (eye level) and weatherproof them with tape.
Move Day
Your reserved space is legally yours during the permit window. Parked vehicles can be towed at the owner's expense.
Keep your permit number handy. If someone is parked in your reserved spot, call SDOT at (206) 684-ROAD.
Alternative Ways to Apply
📞 By Phone
Call SDOT Street Use Permits: (206) 684-5086
Available Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM. Have your address and credit card ready.
🏢 In Person
Visit the SDOT Permit Counter at Seattle Municipal Tower
700 5th Ave, Suite 2200, Seattle, WA 98104
Monday-Friday, 8 AM - 5 PM
What If Someone Parks in Your Spot?
This is the #1 frustration with Seattle moving permits. Here's what to do:
❌ Don't:
- • Block traffic trying to double-park
- • Physically confront the driver
- • Wait hours for a tow truck
- • Park illegally yourself
✓ Do:
- • Call SDOT: (206) 684-ROAD
- • Call Seattle Police non-emergency: (206) 625-5011
- • Have your permit number ready
- • Consider a backup plan (park farther, shuttle items)
Reality Check: Even with a valid permit, tow trucks can take 1-2 hours to arrive in busy areas. Have a Plan B: ask movers if they can park legally nearby and use dollies, or delay the move start until the spot is clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I apply?
Can I get a same-day permit?
Do I need separate permits for loading and unloading?
What happens if I don't get a permit?
Are permits refundable if I change my move date?
💡 Pro Tip for Capitol Hill, Belltown, and Downtown
In Seattle's densest neighborhoods, permits are competitive. Book as early as possible — ideally 2-3 weeks ahead. If you're flexible on timing, weekday mornings (before 10 AM) have the best availability.
Also consider: Many apartment buildings in these areas have loading docks or designated moving zones. Check with your building manager before buying a street permit — you might not need one.
Quick Reference
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Cost | $25 (1 day) / $50 (up to 5 days) |
| Advance Notice | 5 business days minimum |
| Where to Apply | Online, phone, or in-person |
| Phone Number | (206) 684-5086 |
| Online Portal | SDOT Street Use Permits |
| Towing Hotline | (206) 684-ROAD |
Ready to Book Your Mover?
Get quotes from Seattle movers who know the permit process and can navigate tight spaces.