Measurement and evaluation
Parking occupancy
Occupation du stationnement
Parking occupancy is the share of defined parking capacity occupied at a particular time or over a stated observation period. Its interpretation depends on the denominator and measurement method, including whether unavailable spaces, loading-only areas, and unauthorized occupations are included in the capacity and occupied counts.
Understanding the term
An instantaneous survey and time-weighted occupancy answer different questions. Document missing intervals and temporary closures so that apparent changes are not merely changes in observation coverage.
Every reported measure needs a geographic boundary, observation period, unit, and documented calculation method. State how missing data, temporary closures, and sessions crossing the observation boundary are treated. Use distributions or separate user categories where an average hides important differences. Compare consistent definitions across sites and periods, and distinguish an observed association from a demonstrated causal effect. The appropriate indicator follows the policy question rather than whichever field a monitoring system happens to provide.