Overview
- The city began charging on Jan. 5 using tiered lot rates and virtual passes, with San Diego residents eligible for discounts after a one-time $5 online registration that can take up to two business days to verify.
- Officials announced an enforcement grace period after reports of kiosk glitches, missing or unclear signage, and confusion over resident pricing, though the city says payment is still required during the pause.
- Kiosks currently show only nonresident daily rates and cannot verify residency for discounts; the city added stickers directing users to the online portal and is working on software updates.
- Lower Inspiration Point (Level 3) offers three free hours for all visitors with limited capacity among 951 spaces, while full-day parking there costs $5 for residents and $10 for nonresidents.
- The San Diego Zoo runs a separate program with complimentary parking for registered members and a $16 daily rate for nonmembers, and verified park employees and volunteers receive free parking with on-call shuttles outside the tram’s 8 a.m.–8 p.m. hours.