Oldtown Monterey has officially rolled out its updated Residential Parking Permit (RPP) program, and the changes are reshaping how residents manage day‑to‑day parking. For a neighborhood with historic homes, narrow streets, and limited off‑street parking, these updates matter — especially if you’re buying, selling, or simply trying to keep your guests from getting ticketed.
The biggest shift is the city’s move to a fully digital permit system. Every driver in an RPP zone now receives one virtual parking permit, tied to their license plate, with a maximum of four drivers per household. This helps the city control long‑term vehicle storage and ensures that curb space is used by actual residents rather than overflow from nearby businesses, schools, or tourism.
Guest parking has changed too. I've been told that each property now receives 100 digital guest permits per year but some online information still says 25 (updates should be coming). These passes allow visitors to stay beyond posted time limits, but they must be activated online. For many households, 100 passes will be plenty — but for families who host frequently, have rotating caregivers, or run home‑based businesses, this new limit may feel tight. It requires a bit of planning and a lot more awareness of how often guests are parking on the street.
The new system has some benefits. Digital permits make enforcement more consistent, reduce misuse, and help protect curb space for residents. Buyers appreciate knowing that parking is structured and predictable, especially in Oldtown’s charming but crowded streets. Sellers can highlight the neighborhood’s protected parking as a real advantage, and landlords can offer clearer guidance to tenants about how to register and manage their permits.
But there are trade‑offs. The cap on guest permits means households must be more strategic, and the limit of four resident permits per property may be challenging for larger families or shared homes. The digital system also requires some tech comfort, which may be an adjustment for older residents.
For anyone living in Oldtown, make sure to register your household online at https://monterey.getapermit.net, activate your resident permit, and start tracking your guest permits so you don’t run out mid‑holiday season. Remember, the new policy went into effect on August 1, 2026. Call the City if you have questions.
Ultimately, the new parking policy aims to preserve Oldtown’s livability while managing the realities of a busy coastal community. Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or future buyer, understanding these changes will help you navigate daily life — and make smarter decisions about your next move in Monterey.
