Oregon Parks and Rec Department seeks public comment on proposed day use perking permit rate increases

SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is seeking public comment on a proposed rule change that increases day use parking permit rates.

(OAR 736-015-0030, 736-015-0043).

Proposed rules will create rate ranges for day use parking permits, similar to campsite and other facilities in state parks. Additionally, the agency is currently taking public comments on proposed rule changes on additional changes to rate ranges in campsites and other facilities. Public comments on both changes will be accepted together. 

Once rate ranges are adopted into rule, the state parks director has authority to adjust fees based on visitation patterns, increased costs and seasonal fluctuations up to four times per year. Rate ranges were first adopted into rule in 2018 and implemented by the department in 2019. Day use parking permit rates were last updated in 2009, when it increased from $3 to $5. 

Proposed rules would make the following changes to day use parking permit rates:

• Daily Motor Vehicle – Increase from $5 to $7-15;
• 12-month Permit – Increase from $30 to $40-60;
• 24-month Permit -Increase from $50 to $60-80;

Public comments on the proposed rule change will be accepted through 5 p.m. August 30, 2024 and can be submitted:

• Online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx
• Mail: OPRD Department, attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301
• Email: D.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov">OPRD.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov

Three additional public hearings will be held for the public to provide comments.

• In Person Hearings: Tuesday, August 6, 2024, 5:30 p.m., Nehalem Bay State Park Meeting Hall, 34600 Garey St, Nehalem, OR 97131
• Tuesday, August 13, 2024, 5:30 p.m. North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer Street NE, Salem, OR 97301. Must arrive by 6 p.m. to testify.
• Virtual Hearing: Wednesday, August 21, 2024, 5:30 PM. Register to attend the hearing at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_B1jKQl5ASIKh3Q0-hctYOw

Once the public comment period ends, the proposal with any incorporated updates is slated to go to Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission in September or November for possible adoption. Proposed changes in day use parking permit fees would be effective January 1, 2025.