Burlington beach-goers will have to pay to park by the water on weekends starting this Saturday.
The city is introducing an hourly parking fee in lots near Beachway Park to help offset the increasing cost of managing the popular parking lots with barricades, drop-off zones and parking ambassadors.
Burlington beaches have seen record demand for parking during the pandemic, according to the city.
The City of Burlington is introducing a summer parking fees on weekends. ⤵️ #BurlON pic.twitter.com/0ln2PXOAyz
— City of Burlington (@cityburlington) May 18, 2021
While weekend and holiday parking in the rest of downtown Burlington remains free, those parking by the beach will be charged $2.50 an hour or a daily flat rate of $20 between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.
Weekend parking fees start May 22 and will continue until Sept. 25.
But, residents of Halton can also get up to 10 days of free parking along the water starting July 2. Beach-goers can fill out an exemption form online after finding a legal spot — the form does not guarantee a parking spot.
Residents can pay for parking on their smartphones using the Honk app. Burlingtonians are also encouraged to walk or cycle to the beach instead of driving.
The city warns that those parked illegally, namely vehicles parked on Lakeshore Road shoulders and on the grass, will be towed.
Burlington said they are working to ensure residents can enjoy the outdoors this summer while maintaining public health measures.
