Residents of Ashford District who wish to park in a controlled parking zone must hold a valid permit. The information below summarises the main types of permit and how to apply.

**Standard Resident Permit** Available to any resident whose address lies inside a controlled parking zone. The first permit for a household costs £55 per year; additional permits for the same household cost £110 each. Evidence of residence (a recent utility bill or tenancy agreement) and evidence of car ownership (the vehicle registration document) must be supplied. Permits are issued for twelve months and renewals can be completed online.

**Carer Permit** Available free of charge to unpaid carers who visit a resident several times a week. The permit is issued in the carer's name and registered to the address of the person being cared for. A short supporting letter from a GP or care coordinator is required. Carer permits are valid for six months and must be renewed.

**Visitor Permit** A household may buy a book of visitor permits for occasional guests. A book of ten permits costs £6.50 and each permit is valid for one calendar day. Visitor permits are scratch-off, and the date must be clearly indicated before a car is parked.

**Trade Permit** Issued to tradespeople working at an address inside the controlled zone on a specific job. The permit is valid for the duration of the agreed work, up to a maximum of twelve weeks. Trade permits must be arranged by the resident, not by the tradesperson, and the registration number of the vehicle must be given at the time of application.

All applications can be submitted online through the Ashford District Council website. Urgent applications, for example when a new resident moves into the zone, can be processed in person at the council office; bring the same supporting documents listed above.

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