Kent, WA Parking Rules: Preferential Parking Districts (2026)

175 was adopted to respond to parking pressure created by nearby destinations that draw offsite parking demand into residential streets. The city has designated three zones: RPZ No. 1 covers the North Park Neighborhood, bounded by Fifth Avenue North, West James Street, State Route 167, and the Burlington Northern main line, where permits are required at all times; RPZ No. on weekdays; and RPZ No. on weekdays from September through June, excluding holidays. The mayor appoints an RPZ manager from city staff, whose duties may be delegated to the finance department's customer services division.

Permits are issued free of charge to zone owners and residents, proven through King County recorder records, a driver's license showing the address, or a lease/deed; the RPZ manager also mails four window decals and 15 visitor hang-tag permits per dwelling unit, with additional permits available on request. Permits can be revoked or denied for false statements, unauthorized transfer, alteration, display of a suspended permit, or sale of a permit; a revocation or denial notice gives the holder 10 calendar days to appeal in writing to the community development director before it becomes final, and the director's decision may affirm, reverse, or modify the action.

Government vehicles conducting official business in the North Park Neighborhood do not need permits, but government vehicles tied to the Kent Events Center may not park in the RPZ at all.