Neighborhood Parking Programs are designated for residential areas where there is a scarcity of off-street parking for residents, where the majority of legal on-street parking spaces are utilized by commuters and non-residents, and where residents are experiencing traffic, noise and safety issues.

The NPP seeks to alleviate a common set of problems found in Portsmouth, where residential neighborhoods are situated in close proximity to non-residential developments such as offices, stores, restaurants, schools, and transit routes.

To apply for a permit, you must show proof of residency within the NPP District. Proof of residency must include both a valid NH driver’s license and the motor vehicle registration showing that the vehicle you are obtaining a permit for is registered in your name. 

A second proof of residency is required, and can be either of the following: current month utility bill or lease agreement containing the appropriate name and address.  Applicants must resolve all outstanding City-related financial obligations prior to receiving a permit. (Ie. outstanding parking tickets).

Visit our website to complete the application form. Please include scanned copies of proofs of residency.

The annual fee per resident vehicle would be established by the City Council Fee Committee.

Permits expire each fiscal calendar year on June 30th.

If a resident needs to utilize a Service Provider such as a plumber or electrician, the resident may contact the Parking Clerk’s office at 603.610.7229 to request a temporary waiver for the provider for that specific date. Placards are obtained at the Parking Clerk’s office at 1 Junkins Avenue, Portsmouth, NH.

You may either transfer the plate to the new vehicle and update vehicle information with the Parking Clerk’s offices, or register the new plate, cancelling the existing plate. You must again provide required proofs of residency.

Yes. If you falsify any information on the NPP application form, or if you switch plates among vehicles, the permit will be revoked. A Guest Placard is intended to be transferable

Participation in the program is voluntary.  If you choose not to participate, you must obey the posted restrictions in the area if you wish to park on the street.  Non NPP-registered vehicles are subject to enforcement.

On a case-by-case basis, and after consideration of traffic impact, safety and other relevant factors, the Parking Division may grant an exemption from parking restrictions for special events organized by residents participating in an NPP (must have an NPP-registered vehicle for the current calendar year and submit a completed Exemption Request form-subject to approval).

When an NPP program is implemented, a Parking Enforcement Officer would be assigned to patrol the NPP District. Officers will apply appropriate enforcement protocols for vehicles that violate posted restrictions. The Dispatch Office can be reached at 603.766.7000, extension 7.