City Officials Say the Simplified Three-Tier System Will Lower Long-Stay Costs, Modernize Downtown Parking
Santa Monica will debut a revamped public parking rate structure on January 12, 2026, shifting to a streamlined system designed to make pricing easier to understand, reduce costs for longer stays, and help generate millions in annual revenue to support city services.
The new framework replaces the previous nine-tier model used in Downtown parking structures with a simplified three-tier schedule. Under the changes, the first 30 minutes remain free, reduced from the earlier 90-minute window, and rates increase at the three- and five-hour marks, with slight variations depending on the structure. City officials project that most visitors staying three hours or more will pay less than they do under the current system.
City Council approved the new rate structure in August and formally adopted it on October 28 as part of Santa Monica’s Realignment Plan, which reshapes how the city organizes and funds public services. Officials estimate the measure will generate up to $9 million annually to support programs and operations citywide.
Longer-stay visitors will see either reduced or flat maximum daily rates, and monthly parking permits will drop in price by 20 percent. Local businesses may purchase 90-minute validations at a discounted rate of $1.50 each, which includes the first 30 minutes free.
Other city parking areas will also be affected. Hourly parking in beach lots and at meters will increase by an average of 25 cents to $2. Flat-rate beach parking fees are slated to rise by $2.00 to $5.00, but according to city staff, they will remain among the least expensive options along the Southern California coast. Discounted rates for seniors and people with disabilities will continue.
Beginning Jan. 12, 2026, parking payments made by credit card will include a small processing fee to cover the city’s transactional costs. Payments by cash or check will not carry additional charges.
