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DDOT Valet Parking Permit (Standard Use): Washington, D.C. restaurant guide

DDOT — Public Space Policy Branch

What it is

An annual DDOT permit for 'bricks and mortar businesses (e.g. restaurants) providing valet parking on a regular basis', which creates a signed valet staging zone at the curb.

When a restaurant needs it

If you will run regular valet service from the curb in front of your restaurant.

How to apply

Submit the Valet Parking Permit Application to DDOT with photos of the staging zone and the notice to adjacent businesses (30-day public viewing); the Public Space Committee gives final approval.

Documents you’ll need

Fee
$50 non-refundable application fee; space rental 50 cents per hour per 20-foot parking space; plus sign fabrication/installation and any meter-removal costs
Processing time
Up to 30 business days review, then the Public Space Committee
Renewal
Annual
Who files
The business or its valet operator applies; Public Space Policy Branch (202) 671-2333.

Good to know

DDOT, DPW and MPD all enforce the staging zone. Budget the hourly rental for your real operating hours; a 20-foot space for 6 hours a night adds up over a year.

Official source

DDOT: valet parking for standard use (FAQ) · DDOT valet parking FAQ (PDF)

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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.