Monterey, CA Parking Rules: Preferential Parking Districts (2026)

3 authorizes permit parking spaces established by City ordinance: once adequate signs are posted notifying drivers that a space is for permit parking only, it is unlawful to stop, stand or park there without a valid, unexpired City-issued parking permit displayed or maintained as the permit conditions require. The permit is tied to the person it was issued to; it cannot afterward be assigned, sold or transferred to anyone else, and the holder remains responsible for its use or misuse. Creating or using a facsimile or counterfeit permit is separately prohibited.

This on-street mechanism is distinct from the off-street permit parking spaces the City Council can establish under § 20-102 in City-owned lots, on Municipal Wharf No. 2, or other City property, which require a permit sticker displayed in the lower right corner of the windshield and a Council-set monthly or quarterly charge credited to the parking fund. Both permit systems exist because Monterey's parking capacity, especially near downtown, Cannery Row and the waterfront, is limited relative to demand from both residents and visitors, and the City relies on posted signage plus a documented permit, rather than a curb color alone, to reserve those specific spaces.