St. Pete Council Approves Parking Fine Hikes

The St. Petersburg City Council advanced a proposal to increase parking fines and permit fees during its Thursday meeting, with no opposition. A public hearing and final vote are scheduled for Oct. 15.

The proposed changes, approved on their first reading, aim to adjust city revenue in alignment with the budget passed Sept. 17. The increases, which require final council approval and the mayor's signature, will not take effect immediately.

Most parking tickets will rise by $15. The penalty for an expired meter or pay station will increase from $17.50 to $32.50. Common violations, including blocking driveways, double parking, abandoning vehicles in fire lanes, or parking on sidewalks or crosswalks, will increase from $30 to $45. Fines for parking in permit-only areas without authorization or for prohibited trailer parking will jump from $50 to $65. The fine for occupying a disability-reserved space will remain $250.

Residential parking permits will double in cost from $15 to $30 annually. Monthly downtown permits will increase from $20 to $25. The fee to remove a parking boot will also double from $25 to $50. Drivers with monthly downtown permits will see their annual cost rise from $240 to $300.

The ordinance also expands permit eligibility for residents living near permit boundaries. Individuals within one block of a permit area may qualify if property conditions necessitate parking within the zone. College students in permit zones can prove residency using a student ID and lease or utility bill, without needing to change their driver's license and vehicle registration.

Permits will become valid for one year from their issuance date, replacing the calendar year expiration. The city also plans to transition from windshield stickers to digital permits managed via screens. Residents with outstanding parking citations must settle their debts before becoming eligible for a permit.