Two popular beaches in St. Catharines will offer affordable parking permits for local residents this summer. City officials have announced that seasonal parking permits for Lakeside Park Beach and Sunset Beach will cost just $15 for residents. The permits are valid from May through September 30, 2024.
Local residents can access seasonal beach parking for just $15 at Lakeside Park and Sunset Beach from May through September.
The permits are electronically tied to vehicle license plates, eliminating the need for physical passes. Each household can get up to two permits. Residents can apply online through the HotSpot website or mobile app. They can also apply in person at the City Hall parking services counter.
Applicants must show proof of residency, such as a driver’s license or utility bill, along with vehicle ownership documents. Applications will open in April for the upcoming beach season.
For non-residents, parking at the beaches costs $3 per hour. Sunset Beach also offers a $20 flat rate for all-day parking. There’s a three-hour time limit at Lakeside Park Beach, while Sunset Beach has no time restrictions for visitors.
Permit holders don’t have to pay hourly or daily fees and aren’t subject to time limits. The permits work at both beaches, though they don’t guarantee a parking space. Parking rules are enforced daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. during the May to September season.
The city first introduced beach parking fees in 2021 as a response to overcrowding during COVID-19. The system later shifted from printed passes to digital permits, which reduced paperwork and administrative costs. After going digital, permit applications dropped from 14,607 to 5,677.
While parking requires payment, beach access remains free for everyone. Visitors can also find free parking at Jones Beach and in designated areas near Lakeside and Sunset beaches.
Boat owners who need to use the launch at Sunset Beach can purchase separate boat launch permits for $103.50. The fees collected help support ongoing beach maintenance and operations throughout the summer season. Visitors should note that Sunset Beach will undergo renovations this summer to enhance accessibility and amenities.
For more updates on local amenities, recreation, and community improvements, visit Marketplace Niagara
