Park at City beaches this season for just $15 with a residential beach parking permit

Enjoy stress-free beach days all season long! St. Catharines residents can park at Lakeside Park Beach and Sunset Beach for just $15 with a 2025 Residential Beach Parking Permit.

For $15 per vehicle, permit holders can park without paying hourly or daily parking rates. Each household can purchase up to two permits (one per vehicle) but only one permit can be used at a beach lot at a time. Residents are encouraged to apply early.

Parking rates are in effect May 1 to Sept. 30, daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For those without a permit, standard paid parking rates will apply for $3 per hour at both Lakeside Park Beach (three-hour limit) and Sunset Beach. The option of a daily rate of $20 is also available at Sunset Beach.

How to Get Your 2025 Beach Parking Permit

Residential Beach Parking Permits are provided through HotSpot Parking. Residents can apply online via the HotSpot website or mobile app or in person at City Hall by visiting the parking services counter on the second floor on weekdays between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

To apply, residents must provide proof of St. Catharines residency such as a driver’s licence or utility bill, and proof of vehicle ownership (green ownership slip).

Permits are tied to vehicle licence plates, so no physical permit needs to be displayed. Each household can obtain up to two permits, but only one permit can be used at a beach lot at a time. A permit does not guarantee a parking space.

HotSpot Parking reviews and administers permit applications. For inquiries about applications, approvals, or technical support, contact HotSpot Parking at 1.855.712.5888 or support@htsp.ca, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information and to apply, visit stcatharines.ca/BeachParking.

Sunset Beach Renovations

Visitors should be aware that Sunset Beach will undergo renovations this summer to enhance accessibility and amenities. As part of planned upgrades, the boat launch is scheduled to be closed sometime in June, along with the northern portion of the parking lot adjacent to the launch. Boat launch parking permits will not be sold this year. Boaters are encouraged to use the St. Catharines Game and Fish Association boat launch at 61 Lighthouse Road. Improvements are also going to be made to the east trail.

This fall, after peak beach season ends, there will be a full park closure, including the beach, playground, walkway and parking lot, to allow for the remainder of the upgrades. While work is underway, residents are encouraged to visit Lakeside Park Beach or explore alternative waterfront areas.

Find alternative boat launch details and project updates at stcatharines.ca/SunsetRenos.