The Evolution of Parking Permits: From Hangtags to High-Tech

Not long ago, managing parking permits meant boxes of hangtags, printed spreadsheets, and time-consuming manual enforcement. For years, this traditional system worked…until it didn’t. As parking demand grew and operations became more complex, hangtags and paper permits began to show their limitations: they were easy to lose, hard to track, and expensive to administer.

Today, parking permit management has undergone a complete transformation. The shift toward digital, data-driven systems has streamlined processes for operators and created a more convenient experience for parkers.

The move from physical hangtags to digital permits represents more than a technological upgrade; it’s an operational evolution. Digital permitting eliminates the need for printing and mailing costs, reduces fraud, and gives operators the flexibility to issue, revoke, or update permits in real time.

Instead of relying on manual checks, these solutions make enforcement faster and more accurate. They also give operators access to valuable insights about usage patterns, occupancy trends, and customer behavior - all from one central platform.

For drivers, digital permitting means convenience. No more forgetting to hang a tag or worrying about misplaced credentials. Renewals can be completed instantly, and users can easily manage multiple permits or vehicles through simple digital interfaces. This ease of use not only reduces frustration but also reflects positively on the facility, creating a more seamless and professional experience.

Digital permits also contribute to sustainability goals. By removing the need for plastic hangtags, paper applications, and physical mailings, parking operations can significantly reduce waste and lower their environmental footprint.

At TEZ Technology, we’ve helped operators move beyond hangtags with app-free, digital-first solutions that put both operators and customers first. Platforms like TEZPARK make digital permitting, payment, and verification seamless—no apps, no paper, no hassle. Combined with TEZLENZ, operators gain access to actionable data that drives smarter enforcement, better planning, and improved efficiency.

Digital permitting isn’t just the next phase of parking management - it’s the new standard.

Ready to make the move from hangtags to high-tech? TEZ can help you modernize your permit management and transform your parker experience. Contact us today to get started!