Bengaluru is set to undergo a significant change in its urban mobility landscape with the introduction of the draft Greater Bengaluru Authority (Parking) Rules, 2026, notified by the state's Urban Development Department on August 11. These proposed regulations aim to address the city's severe traffic congestion and reclaim public road space by implementing a paid parking permit system for residents. Under the new rules, individuals wishing to park their four-wheelers on public roads adjacent to their residences will need to obtain an annual residential parking permit. The fee structure for these permits varies based on the vehicle type, starting from ₹15,000 per year for small cars (hatchbacks), increasing to ₹20,000 for sedans, and reaching up to ₹25,000 annually for Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs).
Beyond residential parking, the draft rules also stipulate that, with the exception of bicycle and autorickshaw stands, no public parking will be free of charge. There are also sweeping restrictions proposed, including a complete ban on parking along arterial roads designated as high-density corridors and restrictions near junctions, bus stops, transit hubs, and pedestrian crossings. Furthermore, the policy encourages the development of off-street parking facilities, including leasing vacant private plots for public parking and offering property tax exemptions as incentives. The public has been given one month to submit objections and suggestions to these comprehensive new rules, which represent a major overhaul of Bengaluru's parking management system.
