Who will be able to park for free in Almaty - new rules published

Almaty is implementing new regulations for city parking, introducing per-minute billing for paid parking for the first time and clarifying eligibility for free parking.

Under the new rules, property owners or tenants of apartments, offices, or other premises are eligible to apply for free parking. This benefit applies to one designated municipal parking lot located within 500 meters of their residence or office. While a specific spot is not reserved, users can occupy any available space within the designated zone. The management organization is responsible for calculating the 500-meter distance and verifying eligibility.

Free parking rights can be extended to immediate family members residing with the eligible individual, provided written consent from the homeowner is obtained. Guardians of minors can also utilize this benefit with appropriate consent. However, these privileges are subject to revocation. Grounds for cancellation include no longer owning the property or vehicle, expiration of a lease agreement, updated registration data that prevents identification, providing false information during the application, or a court ruling deeming the granting of rights illegal.

The new regulations also introduce per-minute billing for paid parking. Charges will be calculated for every minute of the parking session, with a grace period of 5 minutes for curbside parking and 10 minutes for parking lots. This grace period is intended for passenger pick-up or drop-off or exiting the area. A critical detail states that if a vehicle exceeds the grace period, payment will be charged from the initial moment of placement, including the grace period itself. For example, parking for 15 minutes means paying for the entire duration from the first minute.

The rules also outline vehicle towing protocols. Before towing, operators must complete an inspection report, document the vehicle's condition, and record the entire process via photo and video. Vehicles may be sent to a specific location after towing.