As the fall 2026 semester starts, George Mason students, faculty, and staff are reminded that traffic on and around the Fairfax Campus greatly increases during the first few weeks of the semester. This campus parking and transportation guide includes resources for the Fairfax Campus, Mason Square, and the Science and Technology Campus to help minimize potential parking and traffic delays.
During the first few weeks of the semester, please allow an extra 30 minutes to arrive on campus. Though some parking spaces are more convenient to your destination than others, the Fairfax Campus has more than enough spaces to accommodate all vehicles. However, many general parking permit areas fill at peak class times. Lots L and K are usually the last to fill and the best places to look if arriving to campus after 10 a.m. with a general permit.
Permit Parking and Visitor Parking
A valid parking permit is required to park outside visitor areas. Those without permits should use visitor parking in the garages or in various lots with daily parking options. Virtual parking permits are sold online only at parking.gmu.edu. Permits are sold with daily, weekly, monthly, and semester options and are available for purchase throughout the semester online at parking.gmu.edu.
Due to ongoing maintenance, there will be NO visitor parking in Mason Pond Deck during the fall semester. Besides the other visitor parking options in Shenandoah and Rappahannock decks, as well as daily permit options in Lots K/L, Lot P, and West Campus, a new hourly option has been added at the Ángel Cabrera Global Center lot next to Lot K.
Review the regulations for individual parking permits and understand the rules for parking on campus. Make sure to check the specific guidelines that apply to your permit type.
Traffic Supervision
At times during the morning, late afternoon, and early evenings, campus police cadets will direct traffic around campus. Please be alert and follow the cadets’ directions.
Share the Road
Be mindful of sharing the road safely with an increased number of pedestrians and vehicles, including scooters, motorcycles, bikes, cars, and trucks. Get more tips on safely sharing the road on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website. Shared mobility e-scooters should be parked in scooter corrals or bike racks. No matter where you go, on or off campus, never leave a scooter on a sidewalk or anywhere where it can be a tripping hazard or mobility issue for others. If you are riding a bike or scooter, be sure to wear a helmet.
Read more about Parking and Transportation updates and resources for the fall semester.