Since you most likely entered the ramp at Alpha 3, you can expect to be given instructions to taxi out to "Alpha at Alpha 3". Controller will issue departure clearance from this point as soon as traffic allows.
If traffic/parked aircraft on the ramp area is sparse, you can request a departure directly from the ramp area. Expect phraseology such as the following:
"Departure from the ramp area approved as requested". It is the pilot's responsibility to to check the ramp for moving aircraft, vehicles, or personnel. The actual ramp area is not under tower control. (You will not hear the words "Cleared for takeoff" if you are departing directly from the ramp area).
Arriving helos will be issued either runways or taxiways for approach and landing - depending on the traffic situation.
The preferred landing areas are either "Taxiway Alpha at Alpha 3" or "Intersection Of Taxiway Alpha and Taxiway Bravo".
Taxiway Alpha at Alpha 3: This location is on the Runway 2/20 parallel taxiway directly east of the white weather radar dome (looks like a golf ball). After landing, enter the ramp at Alpha 3, make an immediate right turn and park on the southeast portion of the black asphalt ramp area away from other aircraft.
Intersection of Taxiway Alpha & Taxiway Bravo: This area is located at the northern portion of the airport. It is simply the place where both parallel taxiways (Runway 13/31 & Runway 2/20 taxiways) intersect each other. After landing, expect to taxi south over Alpha to Alpha 3. Enter the ramp at Alpha 3, make an immediate right turn and park on the southeast portion of the black asphalt ramp area away from other aircraft.
