Parking fines and safety tips during the Calgary Stampede
Parking fines and safety tips during The Calgary Stampede
The Calgary Stampede is one of Calgary’s busiest times of year.
If you’re concerned about parking tickets, towing or restricted areas, this page helps you understand what to expect and how to park safely during your visit.
Plan your visit in three simple steps
Choose where to park
Plan to park outside major closure areas and walk the rest of the way.
Check restrictions before you park
Temporary event zones, closures and signage can change throughout Stampede.
Use simple steps to avoid fines
Follow the guidance below to avoid common issues and keep your trip on track.
Parking tickets, fines and enforcement
Avoid common parking fines
- Watch your time: Set a reminder or extend your session before it expires
- Follow signs and restrictions: Check event signage and temporary closures before leaving your vehicle. Avoid no parking and restricted areas
- Parking in the right place: Only park in clearly marked areas and don't block driveways, access routes or other operations
- Respect residential parking: Follow posted permit restrictions and use public parking spaces when available
During busy periods, vehicles parked in restricted areas may be ticketed or relocated nearby to keep traffic moving.
If your vehicle is moved or towed
Vehicles may be relocated to keep traffic moving or to maintain safe access. If this happens:
- Contact Calgary Parking for help locating your vehicle
- Check nearby streets in case your vehicle was moved within the area
- Visit the Municipal Impound Lot if required
You can also pay or appeal a parking ticket online if needed.
Parking checklist
If you receive a parking ticket
If a ticket is issued, you are required to pay the fine. Pay within 30 days to save up to 20%. You can pay or appeal your ticket online.
| Payment timeframe | You pay | Fine amount |
|---|---|---|
| The first 10 days | Lowest fine | $40 |
| Between 10 and 30 days | Next highest fine | $50 |
Parking safety & compliance during Stampede
Parking decisions affect more than convenience. During Stampede, Parking Safety & Compliance Officers are on the ground to help:
- Keep traffic moving in high-demand areas
- Protect access for residents, emergency services and event operations
- Monitor temporary no-parking and restricted zones
- Reduce unsafe parking that can create safety risks
This work helps keep Calgary safe, accessible and welcoming during one of the city’s busiest events.
Watching the fireworks
Fireworks are one of the most popular parts of Stampede and are best viewed from within Stampede Park or The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland (formerly Fort Calgary). While West Ramsay (Scotsman's Hill) is a popular destination to watch the fireworks, please note that vehicle access is restricted.
If you are planning to watch the fireworks, consider parking outside the area and walking in to avoid delays and access restrictions.
West Ramsay, including Scotsman’s Hill, is also a popular viewing location. However, vehicle access is restricted during this time.
Parking in West Ramsay
From July 2 - 12 between 7 - 11 p.m., there is limited vehicle access to West Ramsay from Spiller Rd and 8 St S.E. Ramsay residents and their visitors can continue to access the area with a valid Stampede Access Permit displayed at designated entry points.
Visitors should not park in residential permit-only areas and should follow all posted signs and temporary restrictions. This is to support safe access for residents, emergency services and event operations.
Pay for and manage parking
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Pay for parking without a ParkPlus account
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Pay, manage and find parking with the MyParking app. Available on the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
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Call or text 403-537-PARK (7275) or toll free 1-888-544-4011 to get started.
Visiting Calgary? Know before you park
If you’re visiting during Stampede:
- Parking demand is high and conditions can change quickly
- Always check posted signs and time limits
- Plan your trip before heading downtown
