Thanks to the launch of a new motorcycle permit for people with disabilities, created by SPARC BC and supported by the provincial government, more people will be able to make use of designated parking spots, which will allow them to have access to parks, recreational facilities and services in their communities.
While motorcycles are not always top of mind when people think about designated parking for people with disabilities, SPARC BC has received a number of requests from permit holders who ride motorcycles. These requests often come in May or June as the weather improves and people start to look for ways to enjoy the outdoors and opportunities to fully engage with their communities.
The new motorcycle permits support Accessibility 2024, a 10-year action plan to make B.C. the most progressive province in Canada by 2024 for people with disabilities. A key goal under Accessibility 2024 is for British Columbia communities to have the most accessible transportation options in Canada.
Working with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure and B.C.’s Accessibility Secretariat, SPARC BC developed a decal that can be placed on the windshield or other visible spot of a motorcycle. This allows motorcycles to park in any parking spot designated for people with disabilities. The decal contains all the essential information of a regular parking permit, making it possible to confirm that the individual is a valid permit holder and to ensure that local bylaws can be enforced, while enabling greater access to communities.
Motorcycle permits are available through SPARC BC’s Parking Permit Program for People with Disabilities. As well, SPARC BC will work with other permit-issuing agencies throughout B.C. to ensure that their permit holders who ride motorcycles can also have access to these permits. All they need to do is contact SPARC BC and show proof that they are a valid permit holder in B.C.
Motorcycle permit holders must carry their parking placard with them or have their SPARC BC wallet card as proof that they are the valid permit holder.
New applicants or existing permit holders who require a decal for their motorcycles should contact the Parking Permit Program at SPARC BC at 604 718-7744, or send an email to: permits@sparc.bc.ca.
Learn More:Â SPARC BC: http://www.sparc.bc.ca/
