Starting Nov 18, drivers in Shanghai can park for up to 15 minutes per visit free of charge at designated roadside parking spaces that charge based on duration. Each vehicle can enjoy up to two free parking sessions per workday and three per day on Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and days off under adjusted holiday schedules.

To check how many free visits your vehicle has left for the day, use the "上海停车" (Shanghai Parking) app or its mini program on WeChat or Alipay. You can also open the "Shanghai Parking" section in Suishenban (随申办) or ask a parking attendant.

The free parking policy excludes temporary roadside spaces that charge per visit, such as those set up for major events.

When parking fees apply

If you park for more than 15 minutes, you'll be charged from the moment you parked. Once you've used up your free visits for the day, parking fees apply even if you park for 15 minutes or less.

When parking fees apply, automated roadside parking spaces are billed in 15-minute increments, while parking at spaces staffed by attendants is billed in 30-minute increments. Any parking period shorter than one full increment is charged as a full increment.

Daytime parking rates vary by zone and increase the longer you stay. At the automated spaces on North Xiangyang Road, for example, parking costs 4 yuan (60 cents) per 15 minutes for the first hour, 5 yuan per 15 minutes for the second hour, and 6 yuan per 15 minutes thereafter.

Nighttime parking fees are calculated by duration, subject to a per-visit cap. At the automated spaces on North Xiangyang Road, the nighttime rate is 2 yuan per 15 minutes. A 30-minute stay costs 4 yuan, while a three-hour stay reaches the 10-yuan cap. Nighttime rates generally take effect at 7:30 pm. Check the parking sign for local operating hours and rates.

Paying for parking

Automated spaces: Pay through the "上海停车" app or its WeChat or Alipay mini program when you leave. If you leave without paying, you can look up and pay the fee in the app or mini program within 72 hours of leaving.

Spaces with attendants: Scan the attendant's payment code when you leave.

For help with parking payments, call the Shanghai Parking hotline at 9501399 or the city service hotline at 12345. You can also dispute a charge through the app or mini program.

Source: Shanghai Municipal Development and Reform Commission