Starting January 12, motorists will see a mix of higher hourly rates and new discounts as Santa Monica rolls out a revised parking pricing structure approved by the City Council in August.
Parking generates about $51.4 million annually for the City, according to budget projections. Of that total, $36.1 million supports the General Fund, while $15.3 million goes to the Beach and Pier Funds. City officials say the new rates could generate up to $9 million more per year for the cash-strapped local government.
Under the new pricing, drivers will pay an additional $0.25 per hour at city parking meters, while free parking in Downtown parking structures will be reduced from 90 minutes to 30 minutes.
City officials emphasized that the changes are part of a “simplified three-tier model” designed to encourage longer visits Downtown. Most drivers who park in Downtown structures for three hours or more will pay less than they do today. The maximum daily rate for parking longer than five hours will either decrease or remain flat, and the cost of a monthly parking permit will drop by 20 percent.
Discounted validations will also be available for businesses. Participating business owners can purchase 90-minute validations—which include the first 30 minutes free—for $1.50 each.
“Our new rates encourage visitors to downtown to stay a while to catch a movie, enjoy a meal, go shopping and enjoy all Santa Monica has to offer,” said Anuj Gupta, director of the City’s Transportation Department.
Elsewhere in the city, hourly parking in beach lots and at parking meters will rise by an average of $0.25, bringing many rates to $2 per hour. Mid-City parking lots will increase from $1 to $1.25 per hour, while flat-rate beach lots will rise by an average of $2 to $5. City officials said those lots “remain among the least expensive waterfront parking in Southern California.”
ADA placard holders will receive a 50 percent discount at surface lots and will continue to park for free at meters.
Beginning January 12, drivers who pay with a credit card will also see a small additional fee to cover the City’s credit-card processing costs.
Parking Rate Changes at a Glance
| Location / Type | Current Rate | New Rate (Jan. 12) |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown structures (free period) | 90 minutes free | 30 minutes free |
| Downtown structures (3+ hours) | Higher overall | Lower for most users |
| Maximum daily rate (5+ hours) | Varies | Decrease or flat |
| Monthly parking permit | Current price | 20% reduction |
| Parking meters | Current rate | +$0.25/hour |
| Beach lots (hourly) | ~$1.75 | ~$2.00 |
| Mid-City parking lots | $1.00 | $1.25 |
| Flat-rate beach lots | Varies | +$2 to $5 |
| ADA placard holders | Varies | 50% off surface lots; free meters |
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