To summarize, if you are not a Purple Heart recipient, please do not park in a purple space. Regardless of how long you intend to stay in the space, or whether or not the space appears to be unoccupied, do not park in a purple space unless you have earned the Purple Heart. These spaces are designed to honor the sacrifices of our nation’s combat wounded veterans. Please treat these spaces with the respect that they deserve.
Are Purple Spaces Federally Required?
Before we address this question, let us clarify a common misconception regarding purple parking spaces. Purple parking spaces are not required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA governs the requirement of blue parking spaces for persons with disabilities, but does not require purple parking spaces.
Purple parking spaces are usually developed through the sponsorship of state or local initiatives, or through the private sector. For example, some local governments may work with veteran organizations, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), to install purple parking spaces at public buildings or shopping centers. In West Virginia, the VFW spearheaded an effort that led to purple parking spaces at DMVs and local retailers. Similarly, Virginia’s DMV launched a program that included installing purple parking spaces at various office locations.
Some states, including Florida, have passed laws that permit purple parking spaces to be installed. However, they do not mandate that they be installed. Typically, these spaces are identified by a purple outline and adequate signage.
Since purple parking spaces are not mandated by federal law, enforcement of unauthorized use of a purple space varies. In some areas, violators may face fines or penalties. However, in many cases, there are no consequences for violating the terms of a purple space. In those instances, the greatest penalty is demonstrating blatant disregard for the sacrifice of our nation’s combat wounded veterans.
Where You Will Typically Find Purple Spaces
Once you learn what to look for, you will begin to notice purple parking spaces more frequently. You may find them at DMV offices, VA hospitals, airports, city hall, American Legions, VFW posts, shopping malls, grocery stores, and even schools. Since many of these are private property, the design and installation of purple parking spaces may vary greatly. However, the two most important identifying characteristics are the color of the space and the presence of signage.
Comparison of Purple Parking Spaces to Other Color Coded Parking Spaces
We need to discuss the color coding of parking spaces, as it can become confusing. Blue spaces are designated for people with disabilities, and are subject to strict regulations and enforcement under the ADA. Green, white, red, and yellow spaces are used for short-term parking, loading/unloading, fire lanes, etc., and are designated according to local parking regulations. Purple is not one of the colors used in the regulatory scheme. Rather, purple spaces are honorary, and are used to create awareness and visibility for a very specific population – combat wounded veterans. Therefore, do not confuse a purple space with any of the other color coded spaces, and always check the signage.
When in Doubt, Show Respect
If you are a Purple Heart recipient, then these spaces are for you! Take advantage of them and be proud that you have earned them!
If you are not a Purple Heart recipient, then do the right thing and leave the space available. Don’t matter if you are in a hurry. Don’t matter if it is the last space available. Do not park in a purple space unless you have earned the right to do so.
Finally, if you are unsure of the purpose of a purple parking space in a location where you are visiting, take a few seconds to read the sign or ask a staff member in the building. It is a small courtesy that carries significant meaning. Trust me…it is worth taking the additional time to get it correct!
