Garages and Lots
The City of Cincinnati offers many garages and open-lot options for parking throughout the downtown area for work, dining, festivals, and sporting events. There are daily and monthly options available. Click here for more details including locations, hours, and rates.
Private Parking Lot Licensing
On June 12, 2024, City Council shifted direct oversight and administrative management of privately owned parking lots and garages within Cincinnati limits from the Department of Public Services (DPS) to the Parking Division of the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED). This is part of an ongoing effort to streamline and consolidate all duties related to parking to the Parking Division, whose expertise and topic familiarity allow for the most effective administration of parking city-wide.
As part of this endeavor to improve all parking operations in Cincinnati, the Parking Division is setting out to modernize and simplify the process of private lot application and licensure. By proactively clarifying City expectations, strengthening communication of requirements, and holding private lot owners accountable, the City aims to ensure equitable enforcement of standard compliance and improve the quality of life for residents accessing these lots.
All current and future operators of privately owned parking lots and garages within Cincinnati city limits seeking a required annual operator license will be impacted by this renewed focus on standards and should be aware of the need for their lots to achieve compliance. All Private Garage and Lot operator licenses will now be applied for and issued digitally through our new online portal. All operators are required to utilize the online portal for new application as well as renewals moving forward.
As of September 1, 2024 all operator license holders must use the new portal as a new applicant for the initial digital permit. Please upload all necessary documents and enter payment details. Your payment will process after the license has been approved. Once payment is processed, you will receive an email confirmation with the digital license facsimile.
Helpful Documents & Links
Garage and Lot License Application Portal [Link]
Taxpayer in Good Standing Request Form [Link]
Parking Sign & Lot Buffering Requirements [PDF]
State of Ohio ADA Requirements [PDF]
Fee & Insurance Requirements [PDF]
