LA Parking Guide

Parking in LA is challenging but not impossible. Every neighborhood has different rules. Meters, time limits, and street cleaning schedules vary. Parking tickets are expensive ($68+). The key is reading signs carefully, using apps, and knowing which neighborhoods are easier. Valet is often worth it at restaurants.

Read ALL signs on the block — there can be 3-4 with different rules. Street cleaning: check days/times, cars get towed. Meter hours vary (some 8am-6pm, some 8am-8pm). Many meters take credit cards or apps. Residential permit zones limit parking to 1-2 hours without permit. When in doubt, use a lot.

SpotHero — find and book lots in advance, often discounted. ParkMobile — pay meters from your phone. PayByPhone — alternative meter app. Google Maps — shows some lot prices. Waze — alerts for parking availability. Pro tip: Book event parking ahead on SpotHero for concerts/games.

Easy: Pasadena, South Bay beaches, suburbs. Moderate: DTLA (use lots), Hollywood (meters and lots). Difficult: Venice, Santa Monica weekends, West Hollywood at night. Near impossible: Venice on summer weekends, Beverly Hills shopping areas. When it's difficult, valet or rideshare is sanity-saving.

Street meters: $2-6/hour. Standard lots: $10-20/day. Beach parking: $10-30. DTLA events: $20-40. Valet: $7-15 (tip $3-5 on top). Free street parking: residential areas, read signs carefully. Evenings and weekends: Many meters are free after 6pm/on Sundays — check signs.

Set phone timer for meter expiration. Take photos of signs before walking away. Never park in red zones, ever. Street cleaning tickets are $73+. Use ParkMobile for meter extension alerts. If towed: call 311 or check parkinginla.lacity.org. Disputing tickets is possible online.