Help Me What does "Permit holders excepted" mean?
Updated 27 October 2026
Short answer: "Permit holders excepted" means drivers with the matching council permit, usually shown as an area number such as "Area 14", don't have to follow that plate's time limit. Everyone else must follow the time limit as normal. A "Permit Zone" plate is stricter: only permit holders can park there during the times shown.
Two kinds of permit sign
Permit holders excepted: anyone can park, but only permit holders can stay past the time limit.
Permit Zone: only vehicles showing the right permit can park during the times shown. Everyone else can't park there at all.
Area numbers
Councils split suburbs into permit areas. Your permit only works in the area printed on it. An "Area 14" permit doesn't let you park past the limit in Area 12.
How to get a permit
Resident and visitor permits come from your local council. Rules, eligibility and costs vary, so check your council's website.
Common questions
Can I park in a permit area without a permit?
Yes, if the plate says "Permit holders excepted". You just have to follow the time limit. You can't park in a "Permit Zone" without a permit.
What does Area 14 mean on a parking sign?
It's the council's permit area number. Only permits for Area 14 are excepted from that plate.
Do I need a permit on weekends?
Only if the plate's days include weekends. Outside the times shown, the permit rule doesn't apply.