Oppose New Parking Fees and Protect Public Beach Access in County Parks

Oppose New Parking Fees & Protect Public Beach Access in Palm Beach County

A new Palm Beach County budget proposal would establish new fees for public beach parking at 12 beaches – including Jupiter Beach Park, Carlin Park, Juno Beach Park, Ocean Reef Park, and Phil Foster Park – on top of the two that already charge (R.G. Kreusler Park and South Inlet Park). The proposed rate: at least $4 an hour, projected to raise $7.5 million a year for the County.

The County says this plan is meant to close a gap without raising the millage rate. But balancing the budget on the backs of beachgoers isn't the answer. Access to the coast is part of our Florida way of life, not a line item to be monetized.

A $4/hour fee quickly balloons when you add it up over a family day at the beach, regular summer visits, or a fixed income. For many residents, the beach is one of the last truly free ways to spend a day outdoors with family. Pricing that hits families, seniors, veterans, coastal recreationists, and anyone who can't absorb a "small" fee multiplied by every trip to the sand is another barrier preventing meaningful public access and enjoyment of our beaches.

Surfrider has seen this play out across Florida and up and down the nation’s coasts: parking fees that skyrocket and access that is increasingly pay to play. Our mission prioritizes the protection and enjoyment of our ocean, waves, and beaches for all people – and meaningful public access is at the very heart.

What we're asking the Palm Beach County Commission to do:

• Reject new public parking fees that price out beachgoers.
• Explore broader revenue tools, like tourist development or bed taxes, before moving forward with new parking fees.
• If the implementation of new public parking fees proceeds:
• Cap parking fees well below $4/hour with restrictions on annual increases. Establish free parking during designated hours.
• Guarantee a free or low-cost resident parking pass, not just a 20% discount.
• Build in real exemptions for seniors, veterans, and low-income families.
• Improve public transportation options for county beaches.
• Commit to transparent revenue reporting and restrict revenue uses to improving public beach access, beach maintenance and services, water quality, and coastal environmental protection.

The Board of County Commissioners votes on the final FY2027 budget on September 15. Now is the time to start speaking up to protect public access. We will keep you informed of public meetings and opportunities

Take Action: Email Palm Beach County Commissioners and urge them to keep our beaches accessible for everyone, not just those who can afford to park. *Please remember to be respectful in your communications.*

To email all Commissioners: BCC-AllCommissioners@pbc.gov