Dewey raises parking permit, meter fees

Dewey Beach commissioners voted unanimously Feb. 29 to raise most parking permit and meter fees while providing new discounts for employees of town businesses and business owners not physically located in town.

Mayor TJ Redefer said asking vacationers and guests to contribute to the town is reasonable and fair.

“Parking is one of our largest revenue streams,” Redefer said. “No one likes to see parking rates go up, but we must find ways to create revenue so we can provide services we need and want, and continue to grow.” 

Parking meters and permits are in effect from May 15 to Sept. 15 each year.

Seasonal parking permits are set at $250, up from $200 in previous years, Redefer said, but seasonal parking permits for property and business owners will remain the same at $150. 

Businesses not physically located in town are now able to buy two discounted permits at $200 apiece, and employees of Dewey businesses with valid proof can purchase one permit for the $200 discount price, he said.

Weekly permit rates are now $75, up from $55, and weekend permit rates are now $45, up from $35.

One-day permits for Monday-Wednesday are now $15, up from $10; Thursday-Sunday daily permits are now $20, up from $15. 

Meters are in effect from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and 11 p.m. to 2 a.m., Monday-Wednesday and 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., Thursday-Sunday.

Redefer noted parking would remain free in all permit and meter spots from 5 to 11 p.m., Monday through Wednesday.

Meter rates are now $2.50 an hour Monday-Wednesday on all meters. Thursday through Sunday, metered rates will be $3 an hour on all electronic meters capable of variable parking rates, and $2.50 an hour on all other meters.

Commissioners first discussed amending parking fees in January. Complete parking information can be found at townofdeweybeach.com.