Permit Types vs. Events

Permit Types and Events may look similar, but they are designed for different jobs.

Both use the same underlying rules engine, which means you can create flexible and powerful configurations in either. The difference comes down to how and when they are used.

Key Difference

The main distinction is:

• Events are time-bound and created for a specific occurrence
• Permit Types are reusable and designed for ongoing use

When to Use Events

Events are best for parking tied to a specific date or occasion.

Once the event ends, the parking setup is no longer needed.

Examples:

• A graduation ceremony
• A conference or campus event
• A game day or concert
• A one-time visitor day, like recruitment day or hosted business dinner

Events are created with a defined timeframe and are intended to be used for that single occurrence.

When to Use Permit Types

Permit Types are designed for parking that runs continuously in the background.

They define a consistent set of rules that can be reused without needing to recreate the setup each time.

Examples:

• Hourly parking
• Weekday visitor parking
• Employee or student permits
• Contractor or recurring guest access

Once created, a Permit Type can be used repeatedly across locations and use cases.

How They Work Together

Permit Types and Events are complementary.

• Use Permit Types to define ongoing parking rules
• Use Events when you need a one-time or date-specific setup

Because both are powered by the same rules engine, they share a consistent foundation, while serving different operational needs.

Breakdown

What This Means for You

If you’re setting up parking that should work the same way every day, start with Permit Types.

If you’re setting up parking for a specific date or event, use Events.

What’s Next?

• Compare Permit Types vs Registration Settings
• Or get started: Create your first Permit Type