Have you thought about ditching the meters the next time you’re in the capital? There is free parking all over Washington DC if you know where to look.
Free spaces in D.C. can be located in various residential areas and loading zones. Plus, parking spots that are usually paid are actually free on Sundays.
To find those free parking spots, here is what you need:
- An understanding of where those spots exist. (Check out this free parking map!)
- Some general knowledge about parking regulations so that when you’re parking in a spot – you know it’s free at that time.
Map of Free Parking in Washington DC
Type any address and use the time filters on the map below to find a free parking spot. The map updates depending on the day and time you choose, so you’ll always be able to tell whether that free parking spot is actually free.
Rules for free parking in D.C.:
- Parking is free on Sundays. If you find a metered spot that’s open on a Sunday, you’re home free.
- Free Overnight Parking. This also applies to metered spaces. Most meters are enforced between 7 AM and 6:30 PM, Monday through Saturday, but make sure you check the times on the meter nearest you.
- If you’re a resident, get a permit. Residential parking permits in D.C. make free parking a breeze. Many of the neighborhoods that offer 2-hour free parking become limitless free parking if you have a permit for the neighborhood.
- Free parking on the following holidays:
| Start Date | Parking Holiday | End Date |
| 2025-01-01 | New Year's Day | 2025-01-01 |
| 2025-01-20 | Martin Luther King, Jr. Day | 2025-01-20 |
| 2025-02-17 | Washington's Birthday (Presidents' Day) | 2025-02-17 |
| 2025-04-16 | DC Emancipation Day | 2025-04-16 |
| 2025-05-26 | Memorial Day | 2025-05-26 |
| 2025-07-04 | Independence Day | 2025-07-04 |
| 2025-09-01 | Labor Day | 2025-09-01 |
| 2025-10-13 | Columbus Day | 2025-10-13 |
| 2025-11-11 | Veterans day | 2025-11-11 |
| 2025-11-27 | Thanksgiving Day | 2025-11-27 |
| 2025-12-25 | Christmas Day | 2025-12-25 |
To find parking on the go, download the award-winning SpotAngels app. It is free 😉
