Beach Parking

• You must upload proof of St. Catharines residency and proof of vehicle ownership.
• Vehicle ownership is issued by the Province of Ontario.
• Expired documents will not be accepted as Proof of Residency. Documents without expiry dates (e.g. phone bills, utility bills, mortgage statements, etc.) must be dated within the last 60 days of the application date or they will not be accepted.
• Acceptable file formats for uploading are .jpg, .png and .pdf
• For ease, we recommend having your proof of St. Catharines residency and proof of vehicle ownership saved to your desktop (or some other convenient location) prior to beginning the application process.

Acceptable documents for proof of St. Catharines residency include:

• Ontario driver’s licence
• Utility bill (e.g. hydro, water, gas, phone, internet / cable TV)
• Change of address receipt from Canada Post
• Lease or rental agreement for property in St. Catharines
• Mortgage statement for property in St. Catharines
• Insurance policy or insurance statement for property in St. Catharines
• Property tax assessment
• Document showing residence at a long-term care home

Expired documents will not be accepted as proof of Residency. Documents without expiry dates (e.g. phone bills, utility bills, mortgage statements, etc.) must be dated within the last 60 days of your application date.

For trouble shooting or any support questions, contact HotSpot at 1.855.712.5888 or support@htsp.ca. 

City staff cannot provide information on the following:

• Estimates or timelines for when an application will be reviewed.
• Why an application was denied.
• Technical issues or support with the HotSpot website or App.

The personal information collected on HotSpot's form is collected under the authority of the Municipal Act, 2001. This information will be used for the purpose of administering residential beach parking permits. Questions about the collection of personal information should be directed to Hotspot Parking at support@htsp.ca or 1.855.712.5888.

Questions specific to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act can be directed to the Office of the City Clerk at privacy@stcatharines.ca. 

An account with HotSpot is required in order to obtain a beach parking permit. There is no cost to create an account.

Creating an Account

1. Go to hotspotparking.com 
2. Click on the “click here” link located besides “New User”
3. A new webpage will open
4. Complete the fields on the page
   1. “Select Your Location” – use the drop-down menu to select St. Catharines
   2. “Your Email” – enter your email address
   3. “Password” – create a password 
   4. “Confirm Password” – confirm your password
   5. Click “Finish”
5. The webpage will refresh and you’ll be logged in.
6. An email will be sent to the email you provided.
7. Login to your email account and click on the welcome email. The subject line is “Welcome to HotSpot.”
8. Click on the “confirm email” button in the email and re-enter your email address and password. This will complete the activation process.
9. Once logged-in, go to HotSpot Overview

Logging in
1. Go to hotspotparking.com 
2. Enter your email address and password
3. Click “Sign In”

Requesting a Beach Parking Permit

1. Using the menu on the left, click “Vehicles”
2. Enter information for your vehicle (the licence plate number is mandatory. Other fields are optional)
3. Click “Save”
4. The page will refresh and the information you entered will disappear. At the top, a green band will appear notifying you that the licence plate has been saved to your account.

1. Using the menu on the left, click “Permits” then “Special Permits”
2. The first “municipality” field will default to St. Catharines. If it does not show St. Catharines, use the drop-down menu to select St. Catharines
3. Beside “Upload Proof of St. Catharines address” select “Choose File.” Select the proof of St. Catharines residency that you will be uploading.
4. Beside “Upload Proof of Vehicle Ownership” select “Choose File.” Select the vehicle ownership file you will be uploading.
5. Beside “Address,” enter your address.
6. Beside “Municipality,” enter “St. Catharines.”
7. Beside “Postal Code,” enter your postal code.
8. Beside “Vehicle,” you’ll see your vehicle’s licence plate. Leave this field as it is.
9. Beside “Your Name” enter your name.
10. Check the privacy information box and click “Continue."
11. A pop-up will appear asking you to confirm that the information you are submitting is correct. To change your application, click the “x” in the top-right corner. To submit your application, click “Submit Application.”

The page will refresh and state that your application has been submitted.

Once you've applied for your permit you will receive two emails from the vendor.

1. The first email will come immediately after you've applied for your permit and will confirm that your application was received. The subject line for the email will read, “Special Permit Application Submitted.”
   1. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed for eligibility by the vendor. This is done to ensure that only St. Catharines residents are able to obtain residential beach parking permits.
   2. Applications are reviewed by the vendor, not City staff.
   3. City staff are not able to provide updates or estimates on the completion of applications.
   4. Allow three to five business days for your permit to be reviewed.
2. Second Email - will come after your application has been reviewed by the vendor. The email will inform you of whether your Beach Parking Pass application is approved or denied.

Paying for Your Permit

Once your application is approved you will receive an email from the vendor with the subject line: “Special Permit Approved.”

• Your permit has been approved but you must first pay for your permit for it to be activated.
• You must pay for your permit using the same method that you used to apply for your permit. If you applied online, you must pay for your permit online.

Adding a credit card to Your digital wallet

1. Go to the HotSpot website and login to your account.
2. Click “Wallet”
3. Under “Payment Method” select “Add Credit Card”
4. Under “Credit Card” select “Add Card” and complete the fields on this page
5. When you’ve successfully entered your credit card information a green check mark will appear at the bottom of the page and you’ll automatically be taken back to the previous “Credit Card” page. The card information you just entered will now be visible in your wallet.

Paying for Your Permit

1. Using the menu on the left, click “Permits” -> then “Purchase a Permit"
   1. Municipality – select “St. Catharines"
   2. Location – select “City Beaches (Sunset and Lakeside)”
   3. Vehicle – use the drop-down menu to select your licence plate
2. A blue bar will appear that states “Residential Beach Permit - May to September.” Click the blue bar. A checkout screen will appear. Leave the “quantity” field as “1.”
3. At the bottom of the checkout is a field for you to enter your name. Enter the same name you used on your application.
4. When you’ve completed the form, click the “checkout button.”
5. The page will refresh and display your parking pass.

If Your Application is Denied

• If your Beach Parking Pass application is denied you will receive an email from the vendor with the following subject line: "Special Permits (Residential, Non-Residential, etc.) Rejected"
• The email will outline the reason(s) why your application was denied. In the email will be steps you can take to reapply for the permit.
• Important – permit applications are reviewed solely by the vendor. City staff do not review applications and cannot provide information on why an application may have been denied.

Questions regarding applications must be directed to HotSpot parking at 1.855.712.5888 or support@htsp.ca.  

Changing Your Licence Plate Number

If you’ve purchased a permit and need to change it (example, for a new car that you’ve purchased), contact HotSpot parking at 1.855.712.5888 or support@htsp.ca. 

Purchasing a Second Permit

You must apply for, pay for and claim your first beach parking pass before the system will let you apply for a second beach parking pass. Each household is limited to two passes

1. Go to the vendor website and log-in to your account. Using the menu on the left, click “Vehicles” (the menu is the three lines in the top-left of the screen)
2. Have your second licence plate number handy and follow the steps you used to enter your first vehicle into the system.

An account with the vendor is required in order to obtain a beach parking permit. There is no cost to create an account.

Creating an Account

1. Download or open the HotSpot app on a mobile device, available on the AppStore or Google Play.
2. Scroll down and look for “Not a Member? Get Started.” Click “Get Started”
3. Select “Canada” then select “Ontario” and then select “St. Catharines”
4. The App will display a user preference with “Permits” automatically selected – no action is required. Click the “next” button.
5. Enter an email address and create a password.
6. A pop-up window will appear regarding the vendors terms of service and privacy policy. Click the check box and then click “submit.” 
7. An email will be sent to the email you provided. Log-in to your email account and click on the welcome email. The subject line is “Welcome to HotSpot.”
8. Click on the “confirm email” button in the email.
9. You will be taken to the vendor website where you will be prompted to re-enter your email address and password. Once you’ve entered them, click “Sign In.”
10. Open the App to purchase a permit.

Logging-in to the HotSpot App

1. Open the HotSpot app
2. Enter your email address and password
3. Click “Sign In”

1. Click “Permits” (located in the bottom-right corner)
2. Click the “Add Vehicle” button. You will be prompted to your licence plate number. Leave “Ontario” and “Province” as they are. Click “Add Vehicle”
3. A pop-up message will appear asking you to confirm that your licence plate information is correct. Click “yes” if it is and “no” if you need to change it.
4. Click “Save.”

Applying for your Permit

1. Click “Permits” (located in the bottom-right corner). Under “Special Permits” click the button labelled, “Apply for Permit.”
2. Enter your address and postal code in the appropriate fields. Beside “municipality,” enter St. Catharines. Note: when adding a space, the app will not display the space when you press the space bar. However, when you type your next number or letter the space will be visible.
3. Your licence plate will automatically be inserted. Leave the field as it is.
4. Enter your full name.
5. Check the “privacy information” box and click “next.”
6. The app will refresh and you’ll be prompted to upload your proof of St. Catharines residency and proof of vehicle ownership. The App allows you to upload files or take pictures using your camera. If you choose to upload a file, the App will look to the “Files” folder on your phone. For this reason, save your proof of ownership and residency to the “Files” folder in advance. If you ‘cancel out’ of the upload you will need to restart back at step two.
7. Once both are uploaded, click “Submit.”
8. A pop-up window will appear letting you know the application has ben submitted. Click the “Okay” button. You will be taken back to the “Permits” page.

1. First email - will come immediately after you've applied for your permit and will confirm that your application was received. The subject line for the email will read, “Special Permit Application Submitted.” No action is required of you at this stage.
   1. Once submitted, your application will be reviewed for eligibility. This is done to ensure that only St. Catharines residents are able to obtain residential beach parking permits.
   2. Applications are reviewed by the vendor, not City staff.
   3. City staff are not able to provide updates or estimates on the completion of applications.
   4. Allow three to five business days for your permit to be reviewed.
2. Second email - will come after your application has been reviewed. The email will inform you of whether your beach parking pass application is approved or denied.

Once your beach parking pass application is approved you will receive an email with the subject line: “Special Permit Approved.”

• Your permit has been approved but you must first pay for your permit for it to be activated.
• You must pay for your permit using the same method that you used to apply for your permit. If you applied using the app, you must pay for your permit using the app.

Adding a Credit Card to Your Digital Wallet

1. Open the app and log-in to your account.
2. On the home screen, click “Add Funds” (you may need to scroll down to see the “Add Funds” link)
3. A pop-up message will appear noting that you do not have a credit card on file. Click “Add / Manage Funds”
4. Under “Your Credit Cards” select “Add Card”
5. Under “Credit Card” select “Add Card”. A pop-up window will appear for entering your credit card information.
6. When you’ve successfully entered your credit card information a green check mark will appear at the bottom of the page and you’ll automatically be taken back to the previous page. The card information you just entered will now be visible in your wallet.

Paying for Your Permit

1. Click the “Permits” button located in the bottom-right corner of the App.
2. At the top you will see, “Your Special Permit Application Has Been Approved.” Click the “Claim Permit” button located beneath the text.
3. At the bottom of the checkout is a field for you to enter your name. If your name is not automatically showing, enter the same name you used on your application.
4. Click the “privacy information” button then click the red “Purchase” button.
5. A pop-up message will appear asking you to confirm your purchase. Click “confirm” to purchase or “cancel” if you do not wish to purchase.
6. Click “My Permits” at the bottom of the “thank you” message. You will be taken to the My Permits page, which will show your Residential Beach Permit.

If Your Application is Denied

• If your Beach Parking Pass application is denied you will receive an email from HotSpot with the following subject line: “Special Permits (Residential, Non-Residential, etc.) Rejected’
• The email will outline the reason(s) why your application was denied.
• In the email will be steps you can take to reapply for the permit.

Permit applications are reviewed solely by the vendor. City staff do not review applications and cannot provide information on why an application may have been denied.

Questions regarding applications must be directed to HotSpot parking at 1.855.712.5888 or support@htsp.ca. 

Changing Your Licence Plate Number

If you’ve purchased a permit and need to change it (example, for a new car that you’ve purchased), contact HotSpot parking at 1.855.712.5888 or support@htsp.ca.

• You must request, pay for and claim your first beach parking pass before the system will let you apply for a second beach parking pass.
• Each household is limited to two passes

Complete these steps to add your second vehicle and apply for your permit.

1. Log-in to the HotSpot App.
2. Using the menu in the top-left, click “Manage My Vehicles”
3. Click “Manage My Vehicles.”
4. Follow the steps you used to add your first vehicle. 

Paying for your Second Permit Once the Application is Approved

1. Open the HotSpot app and log-in to your account.
2. Click the “Permits” button located at the bottom-right.
3. At the top you will see, “Your Special Permit Application Has Been Approved.” Click the “Claim Permit” button located beneath the text.
4. At the bottom of the checkout is a field for you to enter your name. If your name is not automatically showing, enter the same name you used on your application.
5. Click the “privacy information” button then click the red “Purchase” button.
6. A pop-up message will appear asking you to confirm your purchase. Click “confirm” to purchase or “cancel” if you do not wish to purchase.
7. Click “My Permits” at the bottom of the “thank you” message. You will be taken to the My Permits page, which will show your second Residential Beach Permit.

Permits are open to residents only. Individuals who reside elsewhere but own property in the City are not eligible and will not be issued a permit.

You must provide your vehicle ownership, photo ID, as well as one of the following:
• Ontario driver’s licence
• Recent Utility bill (e.g. hydro, water, gas, phone, internet/cable TV)
• Change of address receipt from Canada Post
• Lease or rental agreement for property in St. Catharines
• Mortgage statement for property in St. Catharines
• Insurance policy or insurance statement for property in St. Catharines
• Property tax assessment
• Document showing residence at a long-term care home

Permits will not provide for on-street / metered parking and do not guarantee a space when lots are full. Resident permits cannot be used to park in the Sunset Beach boat launch parking area.

Individuals with two permits cannot use both permits at the same time, regardless of them being parked at different beaches simultaneously. Parking Officers will issue a ticket to one of both vehicles, if they are found to be at the beaches, at the same time.

A new vendor (HotSpot Parking) is in place this year; therefore, you cannot use the same account that you used last year. You must create a new account with HotSpot.

How will I know if my permit was approved?

You will receive a notification via email from HotSpot if your permit was approved or denied within three to five business days. Please be sure to check your junk / spam email folder, and please ensure you verify your email address, when you sign up for a HotSpot account.

Why was my permit denied? Will my credit card still be charged?

Your credit card will only be charged once your application is approved, and you purchase a permit. If your permit application has been denied there will be no charge to your credit card. You must pay for your permit after you receive approval, in order for your permit to be active. Not doing this may cause you to be subject to a parking ticket.

Here are some reasons you may be denied:
• Insufficient or out-of-date proof of residency
• Missing Information (proof of residency, vehicle registration, etc.)
• Two permits are already issued under this address.
• Commercial properties do not qualify
• If you have any other questions on your denial of a resident parking permit, please contact HotSpot at 1.855.712.5888 or support@htsp.ca.

When is paid parking in effect at beach lots, when is the permit used?

Annually from May 1 to Sept. 30. For 2024, May 8 to Sept 30.

How long does it take for me to obtain a permit?

Depending on volume and demand, it could take three to five business days to be approved.

How do I pick up / obtain my permit?

Your vehicle licence plate is your permit. There are no physical permits.

My vehicle is not registered to my address, but I live in the City (I use a company vehicle, I use a parent from out of town’s vehicle, I use a caregiver’s vehicle, etc.)

As long as you reside in St. Catharines you can apply for a permit. You must still submit proof of vehicle ownership and proof of residency.

I submitted the wrong documentation, now what?

Please Contact HotSpot at 1.855.712.5888 or support@htsp.ca 

I own property in the City but do not reside in St. Catharines (I am a landlord)

Permits are for residents only. If you live outside of St. Catharines, you are not eligible.

I live in another Niagara municipality, and pay taxes to the Region, why am I not entitled to a permit?

With the City moving forward on improvements to provide a safer and more enjoyable beach experience, the parking fees for non-St. Catharines residents are a way for these beach users to contribute to supporting the recreational infrastructure. Regional taxes do not support maintenance or investments into City beaches. Beaches remain free to access for all visitors and free parking is offered offsite with connections to beaches via sidewalks and trails.

Parking Fees

• Sunset Beach: $3 per hour, or $20 flat rate
• Lakeside Beach: $3 per hour with a three-hour maximum
• Exceeding time limits will result in a penalty notice.

I would like to launch my Boat / Seadoo at the Sunset beach Boat Launch, does my resident parking permit allow for this?

No. Resident beach parking permits, allow for vehicles to be parked in the main Sunset Beach lot and Lakeside Park lots, and are not valid in the boat launch area. Vehicles with an attached trailer must use the designated parking area near the boat launch, and both Residents and Non-Residents will be required to pay $3 per hour. Sunset Beach: $3 per hour or $20 flat rate or apply for a $103.50 seasonal boat launch permit. To apply for a seasonal boat launch permit, please visit stcatharines.ca/beachparking for more information, or attend Parking Services in person, at City Hall, located at 50 Church St., to pick up and pay for your boat launch permit (Trailer licence plate required).

I have a canoe / paddle boat (no trailer) do I require a season boat launch permit?

No. Only those with a trailer are required to pay the parking fees or season launch permit fee. Those without a trailer may use the remainder of the beach lot, using either a resident parking permit with no time limit, or by paying $3 per hour / $20 flat rate (Sunset Beach). You cannot park in the designated boat launch area.

I don’t have a computer, email, and/or credit card, how do I apply for my Permit?

Applying through the online portal with an email and credit card is the quickest way to obtain your permit – this method is strongly encouraged. If necessary, residents may attend in person, the second floor of City Hall at the Parking Services Counter. An email or phone number is recommended in order for the City to contact to you. Please ensure you bring the following documentation when you visit City Hall.

• Proof of residency in St. Catharines
• Proof of vehicle ownership
• Photo ID

Additionally, you can ask a friend or family member to assist you in applying online.

I am a Port Dalhousie business located within the vicinity of the Lakeside Park lot, am I entitled to a parking permit?

Businesses in Port Dalhousie are entitled to two (2), $15 parking permits. Businesses must attend City Hall to apply and pay for their permit on the second-floor Parking Services counter. The permit only exempts the vehicle from payment and time restrictions that are in place the Lakeside Park parking lot. It does not exempt the vehicle from parking within any other metered parking area or for a period extending longer than the posted time limit.

Why has the City introduced the $15 charge for resident permits?

In 2021, the City introduced paid parking at City beaches, to help offset the cost of required maintenance and improvements of beaches. Also in 2021, a free residential beach permit program was introduced, to ensure residents could easily access the beaches that were maintained through their taxes.

Upon reviewing the 2021 pilot permit program it was revealed that significant resources were used to administer the program. Rather than depend on the tax levy, the decision was made to charge a minimal administrative fee, intended to cover the program’s costs solely by those who choose to purchase a permit.

Beach access is open to everyone. The cost of $15 per vehicle to park at beaches for residents. Non-residents, and those without permits, are subject to the below rates:
• Sunset Beach: $3 per hour, or $20 flat rate
• Lakeside Beach: $3 per hour with a three-hour maximum

What if I do not want to, or can’t afford, to pay for a permit or parking? What if I am an out-of-town visitor who wants to visit the beach for more than three hours?

Sunset Beach no longer has a three-hour time limit. Lakeside Park continues to have a three-hour time limit for those that do not have a residential Parking Permit.

Free offsite parking with no time limit, is available near both Lakeside Park beach and Sunset Beach. These spaces are first come, first serve, and visitors can utilize active transportation connections to access beaches from these lots. Maps of offsite parking and trail connections can be found above.

Alternatively, visitors can use public transit to access beaches.