Hi, I need guidance on deploying a FastAPI backend on Railway.

Context:

I have a Python FastAPI backend and I’m trying to deploy it as a Web Service on Railway.

However, my Railway account only allows creating databases, not app services. The UI blocks me from deploying any web service.

What I’m trying to achieve:

• Deploy a FastAPI backend (Python + Uvicorn)
• Expose a public HTTP API
• Use Railway’s free tier (or understand the limits clearly)
• Avoid paid plans if possible

Current situation:

• Railway project shows “You can only deploy databases”
• Web services / app services are disabled
• I cannot deploy containers or run backend code
• No clear explanation in the UI about how to unlock this

My backend structure:

backend/

main.py

requirements.txt

main.py contains:

from fastapi import FastAPI

app = FastAPI()

Typical start command:

uvicorn main:app --host 0.0.0.0 --port $PORT

What I need help with:

1. Is there still a way to deploy web services on Railway for free?
2. Is this restriction permanent for some accounts?
3. Is there a way to reset / unlock app deployments?
4. Are only database deployments allowed on free plans now?
5. If not possible, what is the official alternative for backend hosting?

I’m fine using Docker, CLI, or GitHub deploys if needed.

I just need a clear answer on whether FastAPI apps are supported on the free tier anymore.

Thanks.

Alejo