The City of Hamilton is once again reminding motorists that designated disabled parking bays are strictly reserved for individuals with a valid Disabled Parking Permit—and that this applies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including Sundays and after regular business hours.
Despite previous outreach efforts, City Parking Enforcement Officers continue to observe widespread misuse of these parking bays by drivers without permits, as well as individuals abusing temporary or ‘borrowed’ disabled parking badges. In response, the City will be stepping up enforcement across the City, and those found in violation may be subject to a $75 penalty.
The disabled parking bays are marked with the international symbol of access (blue wheelchair). These bays exist to ensure fair and equitable access to services, especially for those who face mobility challenges.
City of Hamilton CEO Dwayne Caines stated: “Creating a city that is accessible for all means holding the line on fairness. These parking bays are not optional guidelines—they are legal designations that exist to protect the rights and dignity of individuals with disabilities. We are especially concerned about reports of people misusing temporary permits or using someone else’s badge while the permit holder is not present. That is abuse, and it deprives those who genuinely need these spots. Our enforcement teams have been directed to take a stricter approach to violations going forward.”
He added, “There is no ‘quick stop’ exception. The rules apply at all times, and our message is simple: if you do not have a valid disabled parking permit and are not transporting the person it’s issued to, do not park there.
“Also, we must be reminded that disabilities can’t always be seen. We shouldn’t assume that because someone is not in a wheelchair or walking with a cane that they do not have a disability.”
The public is also reminded that the Disabled Parking Permit is issued to a specific individual, not to a vehicle. It is meant to be used only when that individual is being transported. Misuse of these permits—especially by friends, family, or caregivers running errands alone—may result in the revocation of the permit.
The City continues to work to make Hamilton as accessible as possible. Recent infrastructure enhancements include additional accessible parking bays, upgraded curb cuts, and tactile pavers to assist visually impaired pedestrians.
The City of Hamilton uses the definition of “disabled” in the United Kingdom‘s Disability Discrimination Act, 1995, as follows: “A disabled person is a person who has a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long term effect on his or her ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.”
To apply for a Disabled Parking Permit or learn more, visit www.cityofhamilton.bm.
If a member of the public observes someone misusing a disabled parking permit or parking illegally in an accessible bay, please report it to the Bermuda Police Service or contact the City directly at 292-1234.
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