Paid Parking Is Coming to Old Towne Orange This February

Beginning February 9, 2026, paid parking will officially roll out in parts of Old Towne Orange, marking a significant change for residents, visitors, and local businesses who are used to free parking around the Plaza.

Under the new program, parking meters will be enforced seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hourly rates will generally range from approximately $1.25 to $2.00 per hour, depending on location. Both on-street spaces and select city-owned lots will be included in the paid parking zones.

City officials say the goal of the program is to improve parking turnover, reduce congestion, and make it easier for visitors to find available spots near shops and restaurants. By discouraging all-day parking in high-demand areas, the city hopes more spaces will open up for short-term visitors.

Several free parking options will remain, including the Lemon Street parking structure and certain city-owned lots. These are intended to provide alternatives for those who prefer not to use metered spaces or who plan to stay longer than a few hours.

Residents who live within the paid parking zone, along with some local workers, may be eligible for free or discounted parking permits. The permit system is designed to reduce the impact on people who rely on street parking near their homes or workplaces. Details on eligibility and application requirements are expected to be shared ahead of the program’s launch.

The move toward paid parking has been discussed for more than a year and has drawn mixed reactions from the community. Supporters believe it will help address parking shortages and improve access for customers, while critics worry it could discourage casual visits and shift parking pressure into nearby neighborhoods.

As the February start date approaches, Old Towne Orange is preparing for a new parking landscape — one that will likely shape how people visit, shop, and spend time in the area moving forward.