Off-Campus Parking & Vehicle Safety in Eugene, Oregon

Maybe—but you may not need one as much as you think.

One of the biggest advantages of living close to the University of Oregon is being able to walk to campus. If your apartment or rental house is only a few blocks from UO, you can often get to class, the library, campus events, restaurants and other daily destinations without getting behind the wheel.

That's something to consider when comparing off-campus housing.

A rental that includes parking and puts you within walking distance of campus can give you the best of both worlds: you have a place to keep your car when you need it, but you're not dependent on it for your daily routine.

For students who do bring a vehicle, having dedicated parking at home can also eliminate some of the hassle of searching for a spot on the street every time you come home.

Parking costs can vary significantly depending on where you live.

Some newer, high-rise-style apartment communities near the University of Oregon charge separately for garage parking. It's not unusual to see parking fees of $100–$200 or more per month at larger complexes, depending on the property and type of parking. That can add up quickly over the course of a school year.

When you're comparing UO off-campus housing, don't look at rent alone. Ask:

• Is parking included in the monthly rent?
• Is the parking space assigned or first-come, first-served?
• Is it covered or uncovered?
• Is garage parking available?
• How many vehicles are allowed?
• Is there additional parking for roommates or guests?
• Is there an additional monthly parking fee?

At Mallard Properties, parking is included in the rent at our properties that offer parking. Depending on the rental, that may include an off-street parking space or garage parking.

We think parking should be part of the overall value of your home—not an expensive add-on that surprises you after you've already signed a lease.

What About Street Parking Near UO?

Some students living in the University of Oregon area rely on street parking. If that's your plan, it's important to understand Eugene's Residential Parking Permit system.

The City of Eugene has designated residential parking zones where eligible residents can obtain permits that allow them to park beyond posted time limits in their assigned zone. Students and renters can be eligible if their address falls within an eligible residential parking zone and they meet the City's requirements.

Zone H Parking Near 18th and Patterson

For students living in the 18th and Patterson area, Zone H is particularly relevant.

As of September 2026, the City of Eugene lists the Zone H quarterly residential parking permit at $150 per quarter. Rates can change, so always check the City's current information before applying.

Residential permits are tied to your license plate, and parking remains first-come, first-served. A permit doesn't guarantee you a particular parking space.

The City also requires eligible applicants to provide documentation such as proof of residency, photo ID and current vehicle registration.

Where to Apply for a Eugene Residential Parking Permit

If you're renting a home or apartment in a residential parking zone, check your address on the City's parking map before assuming you'll need—or qualify for—a permit.

The City provides current eligibility information, rates, parking-zone maps and application instructions on its Residential Parking Permits page.

Tip for new residents: We recommend checking your parking situation before moving in, rather than waiting until you're unpacked and discovering that street parking is more complicated than expected.

Vehicle Safety in Eugene: Simple Things Make a Difference

Parking is only half the equation. Wherever you park in Eugene, vehicle safety matters.

The Eugene Police Department specifically recommends taking simple precautions to reduce the risk of vehicle theft and break-ins, including locking your vehicle, closing the windows, taking your keys with you and not leaving items visible inside. It also recommends parking in well-lit, higher-activity areas when possible.

For college students, this is especially important because it's easy to think: “It's just a jacket.”

Unfortunately, that doesn't necessarily mean it's safe to leave it in the car.

Don't Leave Things Visible in Your Car

One of the biggest pieces of advice we give our residents is simple: If you don't want to lose it, don't leave it in your car.

That includes more than laptops, wallets and expensive electronics.

A jacket, backpack, hat, gym bag or other seemingly ordinary item can still attract attention if it's visible through the window. Eugene Police Department guidance specifically recommends leaving nothing visible in your vehicle—even when the car is locked.

If you have something you need to keep in the car, consider whether it can be stored securely and out of sight. Ideally, take it with you.

Always Lock Your Car

It sounds obvious, but it's worth saying: Lock your car. Every time. Even if you're only running inside for a few minutes.

Eugene Police Department recommends locking your vehicle whenever you leave it and completely closing the windows.

Don't rely on your car's alarm or other security features as a substitute for basic precautions.

Don't Leave Your Keys or Key Fob in the Car

Take your keys with you whenever you leave your vehicle. And don't hide a spare key somewhere on or near the car. Eugene Police specifically cautions against this because common hiding places are well known.

Choose Your Parking Spot Carefully

When you have a choice, look for parking that's:

• Well lit
• Visible from nearby homes or buildings
• In a higher-activity area
• Within a secure garage or controlled-access area when available

These simple choices can make your vehicle a less appealing target. Eugene Police recommends parking in busy, well-lit locations when possible.

What If Your Car Is Broken Into?

If you discover that your vehicle has been broken into, stolen or vandalized, document what happened and contact the appropriate authorities.

For crimes in progress or emergencies, call 911. For a crime that has already occurred and is not an emergency, call the non-emergency Eugene Police at: (541) 682-5111.

If you live in off-campus housing, it's also a good idea to notify your property manager so they can be aware of what happened on or around the property.

Parking Is One More Reason Location Matters

When you're choosing a place to live near the University of Oregon, it's easy to focus on bedrooms, bathrooms, finishes and monthly rent. But the seemingly "little" practical details matter, too.

How far is it from campus? Where will you park? Is parking included? Is your vehicle secure? Can you walk most places?

A rental that's close enough to walk to UO can potentially save you time, gas and the hassle of driving to class every day. And if your rental includes parking, you can still keep a car at home for weekend trips, grocery runs, getting around Eugene or heading home for breaks.

That's one reason we focus on location when choosing and managing UO off-campus housing.

Looking for Off-Campus Housing Near the University of Oregon?

Mallard Properties offers locally managed rental homes and apartments surrounding the University of Oregon, with properties generally within about four blocks of campus.

Many of our rentals offer parking included in the rent, including off-street parking and garage parking at select properties. Availability and parking arrangements vary by home, so be sure to check the details for the specific rental you're considering.

Have a question?

Call our office at (541) 465-3825 or shoot us a text: (763) 225-3985 and our friendly local office staff will be happy to help you!

And make sure to check out our available rentals page for what's currently available.