There is no single number valid for all of Brazil: the maximum parking time in a special space (reserved for the elderly or people with disabilities) is set by each municipality. What is national is the right to a reserved space, with a valid permit. How many hours you can stay — and whether or not there is a charge — follows each city's law.
The right to the space is national; the time is local
The reservation of parking spaces for the elderly and for people with disabilities on public roads is guaranteed by federal law, and use depends on a permit issued by the municipal traffic authority. The maximum parking time in these spaces — like the limit for ordinary rotational-parking spaces — is regulated locally. That is why one city may allow more time in a special space than another.
How to find the limit in your city
- Read the space's signage: it usually indicates the maximum time and charging hours.
- Check the municipal law or decree for rotational parking.
- Check the app: in cities served by Areatec, Digipare shows the local rules when you activate the space.
- When in doubt, ask city hall or the rotational-parking operator.
A special space is not always a free space
Two points are often confused:
- Parking time: how long you can stay — set by the municipality.
- Payment exemption: whether or not you pay the fee — also set by the municipality.
In some cities the permit holder is exempt; in others, they have the reserved space but still need to activate rotational parking normally. Do not assume it is free: confirm the local rule.
Summary by scenario
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Am I entitled to a reserved space? | Yes, with a valid permit (national rule) |
| How many hours can I stay? | Depends on the municipality — check the sign/local law |
| Do I need to pay the fee? | Varies by city — confirm beforehand |
| Is the permit mandatory? | Yes, and it must be visible in the vehicle |
Be careful when parking outside your city
If you travel, do not assume that your city's limit applies at the destination. Check the local signage and, if you use Digipare, check the rules shown for that municipality. Respecting the maximum time avoids settling up via TPU and, in case of persistent non-compliance, the traffic fine under Art. 181, XVII (serious offense, R$ 195.23, 5 license points) — which is federal and fixed.
In short: your right to a special space holds in any city; how many hours, the city decides.