AMENDED VALET PARKING ORDINANCE EFFECTIVE NOV. 1
Requirements Include Approved Parking Plan in Place

October 31, 2007 -- To protect citizens and help rid neighborhoods of cluttered street parking, valet parking operators doing business on Houston streets must submit a parking plan and other information to obtain a city permit under an amended ordinance that takes effect Nov. 1.

The ordinance covers operation of all permanent valet stands within the city limits, including those for restaurants and shopping centers and those established for special events and other one-time uses.

Among other advances, the ordinance will improve the application process, increase enforceability and provide a short-term license. The ordinance also includes provisions to make the valet company owner directly responsible and citable for offenses committed by company attendants.

“Valet operators outside the central business district will be required to submit a formal application to be reviewed by various city departments, including Public Works’ Traffic & Engineering division and the Parking Management division of the Convention and Entertainment Facilities Department,” said Joe Martin, chair of the Valet Parking Committee of the Public Parking Commission. “As part of the application, operators must submit proof of insurance and occupational license, a parking plan detailing traffic flow and proof of the vehicle storage location for valet customers.”

Valet operators will need signed approval by Public Works and the Parking Management division before providing valet service.

“We’re a customer service-driven organization, and our number-one priority is to improve the safety, traffic management and awareness of parking within our city,” said Liliana Rambo, who heads the Parking Management division. “This new ordinance directly addresses concerns from citizens and area businesses. By requiring an approved parking plan in place, we hope to work toward the mayor’s initiative to keep traffic on our streets running smoothly.”

Parking Management is a division of the City of Houston General Services Department. By servicing and maintaining almost 6,000 on-street parking spaces and numerous garages across the Greater Houston area, Parking Management creates sound regulations for all commercial and residential areas enhancing pedestrian safety, ensuring a smooth flow of traffic and allowing emergency vehicles to reach their destinations. Parking Management also encourages parking awareness while supporting public transit initiatives.

For more information about Parking Management, please call 713.837.0311 or visit www.houstonparking.org.