To better distribute parking demand, the program would implement a two-tier parking fee structure for the upcoming season. Photo courtesy of Placer County

 

TAHOE CITY, CA (MPG) - Placer County will look to begin charging for parking at two more parking lots in Kings Beach in 2026 and could raise parking rates at two other lots after a pilot paid parking program implemented in 2024 and 2025 showed promising results.

Placer County Board of Supervisors members voiced support this week for staff to begin charging for parking at both the West End and Rainbow parking lots in Kings Beach beginning May 1, and introduced a change to the county’s parking ordinance that would allow that to occur.  Staff also notified the Board of Supervisors that they planned to increase parking rates in 2026, consistent with prior board direction in March of 2025.

The changes to the parking ordinance are expected to be considered by the board for final approval at its next meeting. If adopted, the ordinance change would establish paid parking at both new locations from May 1 through Sept. 30, and Staff would move forward with purchasing and installing equipment, kiosks and signage for the two lots.

To improve traffic flow and increase parking turnover to help customers access local businesses, the county’s parking management program targets an 85 percent occupancy rate for paid parking zones. Last summer, Kings Beach parking demand consistently exceeded that threshold.

To better distribute parking demand, the program would implement a two-tier parking fee structure for the upcoming season. Daily rates at priority lots near Lake Tahoe, including Brook Avenue and Christmas Tree, would rise from $10 to $20, with a holiday rate of $40 per day. Secondary lots, including the new pay lots at West End and Rainbow Avenue, would charge $10 per day with a $20 holiday rate.

“The ultimate goal is to drive behavioral changes towards higher utilization of our public transportation options,” said Placer County Department of Public Works Director Jared Deck. “As the program evolves, we’re building on program benefits and incorporate the community feedback we’ve received. These next steps will help relieve congestion and manage parking demand for priority spaces close to the lake, while balancing business and community needs.”

During the two-year trial period, county staff implemented an education-first approach to spread public awareness about the program and conduct community outreach. In the past year, citations were reduced by half and warnings doubled, while traffic flow improved compared to previous years.

Tahoe City parking program development

Though the pilot program only includes changes in Kings Beach, expansion into Tahoe City remains a key component of the program. Community outreach has shown support for parking changes that clearly demonstrate public benefit and reflect local needs.

Placer County staff will work closely with key stakeholders, businesses and residents to develop tailored changes that balance public access, economic vitality and community input. A Tahoe City-specific proposal will be brought before the Board of Supervisors following completion of that outreach process.

Brook Avenue loading zone modification

The ordinance would also make changes to the Brook Avenue parking lot. Based on public input, the county would add an additional 15-minute active loading and unloading space in front of the business located at 8515 Brook Avenue, complementing existing short-term parking zones.

Continued outreach and partnerships

Placer County will continue exploring opportunities to partner with local businesses to allow paid public parking in underused private lots. These efforts aim to balance regional transportation goals with community input while delivering benefits for both residents and visitors.

For more information, visit the parking program webpage.