Columbia’s New Parking Rates: What You Need to Know!
Hey there, Columbia residents! Exciting changes are on the horizon when it comes to parking in our beautiful city. If you’ve been keeping an ear to the ground, you might have heard that the City Council recently approved new parking rates, and we’re here to give you the scoop.
When Will These Changes Take Effect?
Starting March 1, 2025 (or possibly even sooner, depending on the council’s decision), you’ll notice some changes in how much you pay to park on the streets as well as in parking decks across the city. So, grab your calendars, because these updates are important if you use city parking!
What Are the New Rates?
First off, the rate for on-street parking is set to climb to $1.50 per hour. So if you’re planning to run quick errands downtown, make sure you budget accordingly! Additionally, if you ever happen to get a parking ticket, prepare to fork over a little more—tickets will now jump from $8.00 to $25.00. Ouch!
Pocket-Friendly Options for Residents
But don’t worry; it’s not all doom and gloom! The city is introducing some new parking permits that are designed specifically for our hard-working hospitality staff and local residents. You’ll be able to snag a permit for just $35 a month. This is a great way to ease the burden of those pesky parking fees when you’re working long hours or living in the heart of the city!
Investing in Our City
Councilman Will Brennan explained that these increases aren’t just about raising funds; they’re aimed at improving the infrastructure, maintenance, and repair of our aging parking decks. It’s a good step toward enhancing the overall experience for everyone who navigates these spaces.
New Parking Ordinance Highlights
Here’s a quick rundown of the key points from the new parking ordinance:
- No enforcement for on-street parking on Saturdays (except in the bustling Five Points District)
- City-wide on-street parking enforcement will take place from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (Monday through Friday)
- First hour FREE in all City of Columbia parking decks—this is a great perk for short visits!
- Hospitality rooftop-only parking will be available for $35/month
- Increasing on-street parking rates to $1.50/hour
- Various fine increases for those pesky parking citations
- Owner occupant residential permits are set at $30 per vehicle for a 24-month period
- Owner occupant visitor permits will be available for just $24 per vehicle for a 24-month period
Final Thoughts
These changes might require a little adjustment, but they’re ultimately aimed at making our city a better place to live and visit. So, whether you’re heading downtown for dining or just popping in for quick errands, make sure to keep these new rates in mind!
Happy parking, Columbia! And remember to plan ahead as we head toward these changes in March!
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
