Pismo Beach, CA Parking Rules: Preferential Parking Districts (2026)

Chapter 12.24 of the Pismo Beach Municipal Code is the framework for residential permit parking. Nothing takes effect until the City Council acts by resolution after a noticed public hearing. Under § 12.24.010 the Council designates an area only if it finds the area is predominantly residential, that its streets are congested with vehicles parked by persons not residing there, and that limiting parking to vehicles registered or controlled and exclusively used by residents is necessary to preserve the quality of life of persons residing in the area. In reaching that decision the Council considers the effect of nonresident vehicles on ambient noise levels, air pollution levels and other environmental characteristics, pedestrian and vehicular traffic safety, and the burden on residents in gaining access to their residences.

Section 12.24.020 requires the resolution to describe the designated area and to name two classes of permitted vehicles: those registered to or controlled and exclusively used by persons residing in the area, and those registered to or controlled by and exclusively used by visitors to those residents. The resolution also sets the hours and days when the limit applies. Under § 12.24.030 the city traffic engineer then has signs erected along the streets identified in the resolution, giving notice of the preferential parking and the hours and days in effect.

Once an area is designated, § 12.24.040 makes it unlawful and an infraction to stop, stand or park on a covered street during those hours and days except with a valid city preferential parking permit, in an emergency vehicle such as an ambulance, fire engine or police vehicle, or in a vehicle under the control of a person providing service to property in the area, including a delivery vehicle.

Applications go to the city finance director on the director's form, with proof of the applicant's place of residence and, for a resident's vehicle, proof of registration or use and control of each vehicle for which a permit is sought. The fee is fixed by council resolution under a schedule on file with the finance director, and no part of it is refundable.