A Member/Member-elect may lease a parking space for official use within the Congressional District.
A parking lease for the 119th Congress must commence no earlier than January 3, 2025 and terminate by no later than January 2, 2027.
Parking Lease Approval Process
The House does not have a standard parking lease but instead uses the Landlord’s lease.
Prior to either party signing a lease, the Member/Member-elect must submit the proposed lease to the Office of Administrative Counsel via e-mail in PDF form (house.leases@mail.house.gov) or fax (202-226-0357) for review to ensure the lease complies with Federal law and House rules. If the Member/Member-elect executes a lease prior to the Office of Administrative Counsel review and the lease is subsequently determined to be non-compliant, payments cannot be charged against the MRA.
If changes are necessary, the Office of Administrative Counsel will contact the office of the Member/Member-elect to explain the changes that must be made to comply with Federal law and House rules.
If the Office of Administrative Counsel determines that the proposed terms and conditions of the lease comply with Federal law and House rules, the Office of Administrative Counsel will notify the Member/Member-elect to proceed with the signing of the lease.
After the lease is executed by both parties, the lease must be sent to the Office of Administrative Counsel via e-mail in PDF form (house.leases@mail.house.gov) or fax (202-226-0357) for final approval. The the Office of Administrative Counsel will notify the Office of Finance that automatic monthly payments can begin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Leasing a Parking Space
How long does it take the Office of Administrative Counsel Office of Administrative Counsel to review a lease?
The Office of Administrative Counsel attempts to review all leases within 24 hours of receipt.
Does the Member/Member-elect need to personally sign the lease?
Yes. Only the Member/Member-elect may sign.
Should the Landlord complete the W9/ACH Vendor Form?
Yes, the Landlord should complete the W9/ACH Vendor Form so that automatic payments can be made by the Office of Finance.
Can the rent payments be due on the first?
Generally no. The Federal government pays rent in arrears by the last day of the month.
Can the parking lease include state sales/use tax?
It varies state-by-state. Contact the House Office of the General Counsel for a tax-exempt letter (202-225-9700).
Lease Termination
Can the Member terminate the lease before the expiration date?
Generally no, but contact the Office of Administrative Counsel at 202-225-6969 since the answer will depend on the terms of the lease. If a lease is improperly terminated, the Member could still be financially responsible for the monthly payments.