Overview 

This page outlines key resources for getting around UF’s large campus, including parking, transportation, safety services, and campus navigation tools. It also highlights how to stay informed and connected through UF Police and UF Alert. 

Getting around Campus 

The main campus of the University of Florida encompasses 1,000 buildings situated on 2,000 acres – that’s about two and a half times bigger than Central Park! On a campus so big it’s important to get acquainted with your surroundings to reduce stress and make yourself comfortable before your first day. No matter how you choose to get around, UF offers a number of options to help you navigate campus, You can learn more about all of your options for getting around on campus at the UF Transportation and Parking Services website. 

  1. Identify parking locations with the Campus Parking map website. 
  2. Obtain your Parking Permit from UF Transportation and Parking Services. 
  3. Find your classrooms, office and other important locations with the UF Campus map – Obtain keys (if needed) from departmental administrative staff. 

Top Things You Should Know about Parking at UF 

Parking Permits & Regulations 

  • All vehicles parking on campus during permit-restricted hours (7:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Mon–Fri) must have a virtual UF parking permit (your license plate is your permit). No permit is required during non-restricted hours (unless otherwise noted). 
  • Faculty/staff parking permits are valid from September 1 to August 31 and can be purchased online. 
  • Faculty/staff may register up to three license plates, but only one vehicle may be parked on campus at a time. Temporary rental vehicles can be added. More information is available on the TAPS website. 
  • Faculty/staff using a state-issued disabled placard must also purchase a UF Disabled Persons virtual permit. Details available at Disabled Parking Info. 

Visitor Parking 

  • Visitors can park at the UF Bookstore & Welcome Center Garage or Garage 5. Payment is available via walk-up stations, or the Passport app. Visitor permits can also be purchased at the TAPS office. 

Campus Traffic & Speed 

  • The campus-wide speed limit is 20 mph, with lower limits in high-traffic areas and garages. 

Alternative Transportation 

  • UF offers fare-free RTS bus service, Campus Cab by Lyft, the Campus Connector shuttle, and other options like Zipcar and Gator Lift. Learn more at Alternative Transportation. 

Citations & Appeals 

  • To pay or appeal a citation, visit TAPS. Appeals must be submitted within 15 days to avoid a $10 late fee. 
  • Appeals are reviewed by a faculty/staff committee. Decisions are emailed within 4–6 weeks, and payment is only required after a decision is made. 

Contact & Resources 

Need more information? Please visit the TAPS website. 

UF Police Department 

The University of Florida Police Department (UFPD) works to ensure a safe campus through 24/7 emergency response, crime prevention, and community outreach. Faculty can access services like victim support, safety training, and event security. UFPD also offers educational programs and resources such as CPR classes and behavioral threat assessments. Learn more at police.ufl.edu. 

UF Alert  

The University of Florida employs a multimodal approach to the UF Alert program using multiple methods to reach student, faculty, and staff. Members of the university community should be aware of these methods and maintain their current contact information at ONE.UF. Join UF Alert. 

 

Author: Zaina DeLaney, Ed.D. 

Last Reviewed/Updated: June 2025