We have a handicapped placard and I've never been able to find anything from Disney themselves that says parking at resorts is free for me. The website only says that there is handicapped parking but not that it is free unless you valet. This does not help at moderate or value resorts ....
Parking for Guests with Disabilities
Designated parking areas are available throughout Walt Disney World Resort for Guests with disabilities. A valid disability parking permit is required and standard parking rates apply.
Parking
Valet parking at Disney Deluxe hotels is complimentary for any Guest with a valid disability parking permit and a current room or dining reservation at that particular resort. Designated parking areas are available for Guests with disabilities at all Disney Resort hotels. A valid disability-parking permit is required.
Here (and regurgitating blogs) is the only place I've seen it reported as free so last visit the front desk was told that our group (most came on bus) also had a car which has placard and parking was waived. I don't know if it was normal procedure or if because the vehicle was part of a group booking. I have a long trip planned in January on property because the rate was good, but if I have to add parking, I would likely move offsite to better lodging. I will continue to follow folks experiences on here to verify, but it would be nice if Disney would publish this info to the website.
Orlando standard is that handicapped do not get free parking, even at brands that traditionally do it in other cities. I don't know why Disney would do this as a policy other than to avoid backlash. Disney is a popular destination with folks with disabilities, and while they are in compliance legally they in no way have enough handicapped parking spots at hotels. It would be like paying for something they are not providing so maybe the hope is, I won't charge you - you don't complain.
Just for my own info and to take with me next trip ... do you have a link to the actual Disney release that stated this would be free? Thanks.