Parking: Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for a faculty/staff parking permit?
Full-time faculty/staff, part-time employees who are not students, faculty members on modified retirement and adjunct professors are eligible for a faculty/staff parking permit.
If I am a visitor to the campus how can I avoid getting a parking ticket?
Effective September 2025, university guests can purchase a 30-day visitor pass for $10 or a 1-day pass for $3. These passes are good for 30 days or 1 day from the date of purchase, respectively.
During special events, such as graduations, athletic events, and fine arts performances, guests will not be charged the $5 or $10 fee. They will not need to register their vehicles before parking in designated special event parking.
The Welcome Center also reserves spots for prospective students and their families. For guests who park in these spots, Welcome Center staff will provide parking passes and help guests register their vehicles on the day of their visit.
Can I park after 3 p.m. without a permit?
No, you must have a current parking permit 24 hours a day, seven days a week. However, after 3 p.m., green permits may park in blue color zones without penalty.
I am a student at another ETAMU location such as Dallas or Navarro. Do I still need a parking permit for the few times I come to the Commerce Campus?
Yes, everyone must have an East Texas A&M parking permit. You may purchase a visitor pass if you are only coming to campus for a limited time.
If I get a parking ticket, can I appeal it?
Yes, you have five days from the receipt of your ticket to file an appeal.
Is there a free parking option on campus?
Vehicles registered with UPD may park for free in Lot 19, which is bound by Bois d'Arc, Campbell, Cooper and Walnut Streets. Parking in Lot 19 is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
o For Faculty, Staff, and Students: Use your university credentials to log in.
o For Guests and Contractors: Create a new account to access the portal.
o Once logged in, select the free Lot 19 permit. You will then be prompted to add your vehicle information and address before completing the checkout process.o Important Information: This permit allows you to register only one vehicle, and you may only have one Lot 19 permit. The permit is only valid for 30 days. To avoid a citation, you must renew your permit every 30 days by following these steps again.
What to do if my vehicle has been towed for parking in a reserved space?
Call 903.886.5868 to reach University Police Department Dispatch. They will verify that your vehicle has been towed and provide direction on next steps, including contacting the tow company to make arrangements to retrieve your vehicle. All fines associated with towing will be between the vehicle driver and the tow company. Any citations issued from the University from parking in a prohibited area must be paid through myLeo or at the cashier window in the McDowell Administration building.