Can a valid disabled parking permit allow someone to park anywhere they want?

No, a valid disabled parking permit does not allow someone to park anywhere they want. While the permit provides certain privileges, there are limits to where and how it can be used:

Where They Can Park:
1. Accessible Spaces: They can park in designated disabled parking spaces.
2. Time-Limited Parking Zones: In many places, including Oregon, a disabled parking permit allows a vehicle to exceed posted time limits in time-restricted parking zones (like 2-hour parking zones). However, local regulations may impose limits on how long they can park.
3. Meters: In some jurisdictions, disabled parking permits may exempt the holder from paying parking meter fees or allow them to park for extended periods. Oregon cities may vary on this rule.

Where They Cannot Park:
1. No Parking Zones: Disabled permits do not grant permission to park in areas where parking is prohibited entirely, such as "No Parking" zones, loading zones, or tow-away zones.
2. Fire Lanes: Parking in fire lanes is strictly prohibited, regardless of permit status.
3. Hydrant Zones: Parking within the restricted distance from fire hydrants (usually 10–15 feet) is not allowed.
4. Private Property Restrictions: A disabled parking permit doesn’t override private property rules, such as parking in spaces reserved for tenants or employees without proper authorization.
5. Other Safety-Restricted Areas: Examples include blocking driveways, intersections, crosswalks, or pedestrian zones.

Enforcement:
Using a disabled parking permit improperly (e.g., parking in a no-parking zone) can result in fines, towing, or even the revocation of the permit. Disabled parking privileges are intended to improve accessibility, not to bypass general parking rules.