short term parking garage

Accessible parking at tpa

Accessible Parking at Tampa International Airport: Your Complete Guide

Tampa International Airport (TPA) is committed to providing accessible parking options for passengers with disabilities. From designated parking spaces to specialized vehicle accommodations, TPA makes airport parking easy and convenient for travelers with accessibility needs. Here's everything you need to know about accessible parking at Tampa International Airport.

Where is accessible parking located at Tampa International Airport?

Accessible parking for passengers with disabilities is available 24 hours a day in all Tampa International Airport parking areas.
Available locations include:
  • Short Term Parking Garage (all levels)
  • Long Term Parking Garage (all levels)
  • Economy Parking Garage (adjacent to elevators)
Designated accessible parking spaces are marked with standard signage symbols and are commonly located adjacent to elevators for easy terminal access.

Is accessible parking free at Tampa International Airport?

In accordance with Florida State Statutes, Tampa International Airport offers free parking for individuals meeting specific criteria.
You qualify for free parking if your vehicle has:
  • A Disabled Veterans (DV) license plate
  • Hand controls, foot controls, or a wheelchair ramp/lift
  • A State of Florida Toll Exemption Permit
Important: The maximum vehicle stay is 45 days. For additional information, contact the parking office at (813) 870-8791.

What are the vehicle height restrictions for accessible parking at TPA?

Tampa International Airport accommodates vehicles of various heights across its parking facilities to ensure accessibility for all passengers.
Height restrictions by parking area:
  • Short Term Parking Garage: Up to 6 feet, 8 inches
  • Long Term Parking Garage: Up to 7 feet, 10 inches
  • Economy Parking Garage: Up to 8 feet (covered parking); up to 13 feet (uncovered surface lot)
Special accommodations for wheelchair-accessible vehicles: If you have a vehicle greater than 7 feet, 10 inches equipped with specialized equipment such as wheelchair ramps, lifts, or hand/foot controls, please call the parking office at (813) 870-8791 for parking instructions before your arrival.

Do I need to reserve accessible parking in advance?

No, you do not need to reserve accessible parking in advance. However, pre-booking is available and offers several advantages.
Benefits of pre-booking:
  • Guaranteed parking space in your selected garage
  • Lower rates than drive-up parking
  • Access to special discounts and promotions
Important note: While pre-booking guarantees space in the garage, it does not reserve a specific parking spot. Accessible parking spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis within each garage.

How do I get from accessible parking to the terminal?

Tampa International Airport provides multiple accessible routes from parking areas to the terminal.
  • From Short Term Parking: Take elevators directly to the Main Terminal (levels 4-9 are above the terminal).
  • From Long Term Parking: Use the moving walkway on Level 4 to reach the Main Terminal.
  • From Economy Parking: Take elevators from Level 1 of the garage to the SkyConnect train station. The automated SkyConnect train provides a quick, accessible ride to the Main Terminal.
All elevators are wheelchair-accessible and conveniently located near designated accessible parking spaces.

Are there accessible restrooms in the parking garages?

Yes. All public restrooms at Tampa International Airport, including those in parking facilities, are wheelchair-accessible.
Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are located in the Economy Parking Garage and throughout the Main Terminal on all levels: Baggage Claim, Ticketing, and Transfer Level.
Companion restrooms (also called family restrooms) are available in certain locations throughout the airport for passengers who need caregiver assistance. Look for the international wheelchair symbol to locate these facilities.

What should I do if I need assistance in the parking garage?

Tampa International Airport provides several assistance options for passengers with disabilities.
  • Immediate assistance: Push-button emergency and assistance phones are located throughout all parking facilities at elevator lobbies. Use these phones to contact parking operations immediately.
  • Cannot locate your vehicle: Contact parking operations using the assistance phone at the nearest elevator. Parking reminder cards are also available near elevator call buttons to help you remember your parking location.
  • Vehicle issues: If your car won't start or you have a flat tire, call the parking operator at (813) 870-8791 for assistance.

Does Tampa International Airport offer accessible ground transportation?

Yes. TPA provides multiple accessible ground transportation options for passengers with disabilities.
  • Wheelchair-accessible taxis: Taxis with wheelchair lifts are available. Request an equipped vehicle at the baggage claim Ground Transportation area. Allow extra time for the vehicle to arrive.
  • Rental cars with hand controls: Most rental car companies at TPA offer vehicles equipped with hand controls with advance notice. Contact your rental company before arrival.
  • Public transit: HART (Hillsborough Area Regional Transit) provides fully accessible transit service throughout Tampa for passengers using wheelchairs or motorized scooters.
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft both have drivers capable of accommodating passengers with disabilities.

Are there electric vehicle charging stations in accessible parking areas?

Yes. Tampa International Airport offers free electric vehicle (EV) charging stations, including accessible parking areas.
Charging station types:
  • Level 1 Chargers (110V): Available in Long Term and Economy Parking Garages
  • Level 2 Chargers (220V): Available in Short Term Parking Garage and Cell Phone Lot
All-electric and hybrid-electric vehicles are encouraged to use designated EV charging spaces.

What other accessibility services does TPA provide?

Tampa International Airport is committed to full accessibility throughout your travel experience.
Additional accessibility services include:
  • Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Lanyard Program for passengers with invisible disabilities (autism, chronic pain, etc.)
  • Wheelchair assistance from airlines (request through your airline)
  • TTY/TDD telephones throughout the airport
  • Service animal relief areas at all terminals
  • Guest Experience representatives and volunteer ambassadors trained to assist passengers with disabilities
TSA Cares: Passengers with disabilities or medical conditions can call TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227 at least 72 hours before their flight for assistance with the security screening process.

How long can I park in accessible parking at Tampa International Airport?

The maximum parking duration at any Tampa International Airport parking facility is 45 days.
This applies to all parking areas, including accessible parking spaces. If your vehicle is left longer than 45 days and airport staff cannot contact you, it may be impounded.
For extended parking needs beyond 45 days, contact the parking office at (813) 870-8791 to discuss options.

Who do I contact if I have questions about accessible parking?

Tampa International Airport provides multiple contact options for accessibility questions and assistance.
Parking-related questions:
ADA compliance and accessibility services:
  • TPA ADA Coordinator: (813) 853-7530 (monitored during business hours)
General airport operations:
  • Airport Operations Center: (813) 870-8770

Plan Your Accessible Parking Experience

Tampa International Airport is committed to providing equal access and exceptional service to all passengers. With accessible parking available 24/7 in all parking areas, specialized accommodations for wheelchair-accessible vans, and comprehensive accessibility services throughout the airport, TPA makes travel easier for passengers with disabilities.
Before your trip:
  • If you have a vehicle taller than 7 feet 10 inches with specialized equipment, call (813) 870-8791 for parking instructions
  • Contact your airline at least 72 hours in advance to request wheelchair assistance
  • Call TSA Cares at 1-855-787-2227 if you need special accommodations at security screening
  • Consider pre-booking parking online for guaranteed space and lower rates
For more information about accessibility services at Tampa International Airport, visit tampaairport.com/guest-experience/accessibility-services or contact the parking office at (813) 870-8791.