Why Some Parking Spaces Are Painted Purple—and Why You Should Think Twice Before Using One

I recall my first encounter with a bright purple parking space located close to the front door of a retail shopping center. The purple space had no “Handicap” designation and was neither a loading zone. Simply… purple. I decided to read the sign above the space to determine why this particular parking space had been painted such a unique color. As I read the sign, I realized that this was far more than simply a colorful coat of paint. This was a symbol of something much deeper.

Have you ever seen a purple parking space and wondered what it represents? Here is a brief explanation: Purple parking spaces are typically designated as a way to recognize individuals who have received the Purple Heart. This U.S. military decoration is awarded to members of the U.S. military for wounds received during combat. These spaces allow combat wounded veterans to be recognized with respect and given convenient access to their destination.

While purple parking spaces are intended to represent the same concept across all areas, you should not automatically assume that purple parking spaces are the same throughout the country. These spaces are not governed under a federal law. Therefore, it is essential that you carefully read the posted sign prior to parking in a purple space.

A Brief Overview of the Purple Heart and Why Purple?

The Purple Heart is a U.S. Military decoration awarded to service members who have been injured or killed in action. The Purple Heart has been around since 1932 and remains one of the oldest active military honors awarded today. Receiving the Purple Heart is considered an extreme honor and is deeply symbolic to the individuals who are awarded it.

As mentioned earlier, the Purple Heart is shaped like a heart. The heart shape is made of a purple background with a gold frame, which includes a portrait of General George Washington. Therefore, the selection of purple for these parking spaces is directly related to the symbolism and color of the medal. When a community chooses to designate a parking space as a purple space, they provide visual acknowledgment of those who have been wounded or killed in battle. Although it is a simple gesture, it demonstrates gratitude and appreciation for those who have made great personal sacrifices in order to serve their country.

Identifying a Purple Parking Space

You can easily identify a purple parking space as it will normally draw attention to itself. Some will be completely painted purple while others will include purple lines, stripes, etc. Purple parking spaces are typically placed in high-traffic, highly-visible areas. For example, areas such as near the front of a building or a business’ main entrance (much like accessible parking spots).

In virtually every instance, a purple parking space will have a sign above or adjacent to the parking space. The sign will indicate that the parking space is designated specifically for Purple Heart recipients. The sign may be written with a phrase indicating that the space is for Purple Heart recipients, Combat Wounded Veterans, or may display an image of the Purple Heart Medal. Additionally, the sign may include a reference to a local veteran organization that sponsored the parking space. There is no single standardized design template for a purple parking space. However, the combination of purple paint and signage referencing a veteran group is a good indicator of the space being designated for a Purple Heart recipient.

Who May Park in a Purple Space?

It is extremely important to note that using a purple parking space without proper authorization is not only inconsiderate. It also demonstrates disrespect to the individual(s) who have earned the right to park in the space.

Generally speaking, a purple parking space is reserved for a Purple Heart recipient. A Purple Heart recipient is a veteran who has been wounded in combat while serving in the U.S. military. To legally or properly utilize a purple parking space, the Purple Heart recipient may possess a Purple Heart license plate or a special ID card issued to veterans. They may also have other documentation verifying their entitlement to park in the space. This depends upon the policies of the area where the parking space is located.

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!