How to Apply for a Handicapped Parking Space Outside Your Home in Lancaster City, PA

If you or a family member has limited mobility, getting a handicapped parking space near your home can make daily life a little easier.
Fortunately, Lancaster City, Pennsylvania does allow residents to apply for on-street handicapped parking spaces, provided you meet certain eligibility requirements. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process.

Step 1: Make Sure You Have a Valid Disabled Placard or License Plate

Before you apply for a handicapped parking space through the city, you’ll first need a disabled parking placard or plate issued by PennDOT.
You can apply through the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation if you:

• Cannot walk more than 200 feet without stopping to rest

• Require a cane, walker, brace, crutch, prosthetic, or wheelchair

• Have certain cardiac, lung, or neurological conditions

• Are legally blind or meet other qualifying medical criteria

Your doctor will need to complete the medical portion of the application.

Step 2: Complete the Lancaster City Handicapped Parking Application

Once you have your placard or plate, you can submit the Lancaster City Handicapped Parking Space Application.
You’ll need to provide:

• A copy of your valid PennDOT disabled placard or plate

• A physician’s statement verifying your need for accessible parking

• The completed City of Lancaster application form

You can submit the form to the Customer Service Department or Traffic Commission Administrator at Lancaster City Hall.

Step 3: The City Will Review and Inspect the Area

After your application is received, the City will conduct an on-site inspection to ensure the location meets all requirements.
During the review, they’ll check:

• Whether you have off-street parking (driveway, garage, or private lot). If you do, your request may be denied.

• The number of existing handicapped spaces already available on your street.

• Whether the space is safe and accessible for signage and curb painting.

The city will notify you of approval or denial after the review is complete.

Step 4: Follow the Rules for Your Designated Space

If approved, the city will install an official handicapped parking sign near your residence.
It’s important to note:

• The space remains public property. Any vehicle displaying a valid handicap placard or plate may use it.

• You must still follow all other parking rules, such as street sweeping and snow emergency restrictions.

• The space may need to be renewed annually—check your approval letter for details.

Important Things to Know

• Approval is not guaranteed, even if you have a placard. The City may deny applications that don’t meet spacing or accessibility criteria.

• You cannot reserve or “own” the space—it simply provides easier access for residents with disabilities in your area.

• If you move, the sign will usually be removed or reassigned.

For the most up-to-date policies, visit the City of Lancaster’s Handicapped Parking page.

Final Thoughts

Getting a handicapped parking space near your home can make a world of difference, especially in Lancaster City’s busy neighborhoods.
As long as you meet the state and local eligibility requirements, the process is straightforward—and the city is generally accommodating when accessibility is truly needed.

If you’re moving to or within Lancaster City, I’d be happy to help you find homes that already offer off-street parking or accessible features that make daily life easier.

📞 Need Help Finding an Accessible Home in Lancaster?
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Albert Linsdell, Realtor® | TruAdvantage Team powered by Real Broker
RS370047 | (717) 814-2090 | [email protected]