Parking in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) can quickly turn into a nightmare in the city of dreams. The streets won’t go easy on the beginners and the lots won’t go easy on your pockets. So, if you are new to driving in LA, we have a few useful tips to help you find your way around.
Vehicle density in LA is one of the highest among the major US cities. Everyone likes to drive everywhere, though public transport options are available. But heavy traffic is not the only thing you need to worry about because finding parking is trickier, especially downtown. If you are new in the city, your woes don’t end there. Parking on the streets comes with the risk of expiring time limits, street cleaning regulations, and other restrictions that you’ll need a crash course in to avoid piling up the tickets on your windshield. So, let’s get started with these essential tips for easy parking in downtown Los Angeles.
Know Your DTLA Parking Time Limits
Free street parking in downtown LA is available, but before you say yay, be aware of the time limits. It’s often just a couple of hours. Any more and you get a ticket! Keep an eye out for street sweeping schedules as well. Opposite sides of a street are cleaned on different days. Metered parking time limits also vary and are mostly just one or two hours in busy neighborhoods. Make a note of the enforcement times displayed on signboards or the meter itself before leaving your car in the street.
Stay Updated on LA Parking Rules
LA parking enforcement is extremely efficient. Parking permits, street cleaning schedules, busy hour restrictions, meters running out – you really need to know LA parking rules to save yourself from parking tickets. Stack up the violations, and there’s a real chance of getting towed. And then you’ll have to pay the boot fee, too. Signboards can save you a lot – always keep an eye out for them.
Don’t Risk Parking on the Street
It could be cheaper and sometimes even free, but street parking in LA isn’t always safe. Keeping up with the many parking rules and restrictions, or even finding curbside parking quickly enough, is a challenge. Save yourself some time and effort by simply booking your parking space in advance at one of the many downtown LA parking lots and garages. You can search and compare your options using apps like Way to get the best deal.
Downtown Los Angeles Parking – FAQs
Is street parking free in downtown LA?
How much does it cost to park in downtown Los Angeles?
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Renée Martin is a travel and car expert who focuses on road and air travel in the U.S. For the past 6 years, she’s been helping make driving and trip planning easier and budget-friendly for everyday travelers.
