Calgarians who visit the Mission area to dine or shop can no longer score free two-hour parking on some of the side streets.

At least, for the next six months.

The city has installed "hybrid zones" on five avenues just off Fourth Street that require visiting motorists to pay for parking.

"The intent of this pilot project is to encourage customers to choose Fourth Street first when parking, and free up space on residential side streets," a Calgary Parking Authority spokesperson told the CBC in an email.

People who live in the area are exempt from payment and time restrictions posted on the signage, as long as they have a residential parking permit.

The following blocks are included in the pilot project:

18th Avenue S.W. between Fourth and Fifth Streets S.W.

19th Avenue S.W. between Fourth and Fifth Streets S.W.

19th Avenue S.W. between Third and Fourth Streets S.W.

20th Avenue S.W. between Third and Fourth Streets S.W.

21st Avenue S.W. between Third and Fourth Streets S.W.

​ In the new 'hybrid zones,' Calgarians with a residential parking permit don't have to pay and are exempt from time restrictions posted on the signage

The Calgary Parking Authority said there are no plans yet to expand these hybrid zones — but is testing the idea to find out how it will impact parking in the area.

With files from the Calgary Eyeopener