How is parking at the Patterson Metro-North station? Do you need a permit?

Patterson Metro-North station seems to have both permit and metered parking. The commuter capacity of the station is marked as 218 according to an MTA website and I take this to mean 218 parking spots. From the general chatter of commuters in the area, it appears as though parking is available more easily if you can make it to the station earlier during the week days.