Description
Residential permit parking programs in conjunction with parking pricing (meters) for on-street parking is typically implemented in transitional neighborhoods – near commercial corridors, universities, or entertainment districts—where demand is high and land use is mixed. It reduces vehicle circulation for parking, encourages turn over, and encourages people to consider other modes.
Implementation Details
- Pilot residential permit parking in locations near business districts.
- Incorporate clear signage, an streamlined permit system for residents, and easy to use parking payment apps
Mitigation Potential
Implementing parking pricing in conjunction with residential permit parking increases the cost of driving to a location and reduces parking spillover into residential areas. Pricing parking disincentivizes the use of Single Occupancy Vehicle and encourages alternative forms of transportation, reducing VMT.
For more details, see CALTRANS SB743 Program Mitigation Playbook, Parking, pg. 39-41 and CAPCOA (2019), Residential Area Parking Permits, pg. 8 for VMT reduction quantification.
Linked Strategies
Equity Considerations
To avoid placing cost burdens on low-income drivers or residents, pricing strategies should include a streamlined permit system for residents. Transparent community engagement is critical to ensure buy-in and equitable outcomes.
Funding Sources
Likely requires initial funding to monitor parking facilities, plus continued funding for staffing parking enforcement. Planning for alternative parking strategies can be funded through RCTC’s Measure A program, Caltrans Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants, and CMAQ. Proximity to transit and active transportation networks may impact eligibility to a broader range of funding programs.
Examples/Case Studies
City of Santa Monica
Santa Monica’s residential permit parking program overlaps with metered areas in dense, high-demand neighborhoods, allowing permitted residents to park without paying meters in designated zones. However, exemptions do not apply to all metered spaces, maintaining curb availability and turnover near commercial corridors.
City of West Hollywood
West Hollywood uses a layered curb management strategy where some residential streets include both metered parking and permit requirements, particularly near nightlife and commercial areas. Resident permits may exempt holders from meter payment in certain zones, while visitor permits generally do not.