New Parking Rates and Cash Payment Options Approved for Cleveland Streets
Cleveland residents and commuters will see changes to on-street parking rules following the passage of emergency Ordinance No. 522-2026. This legislation adjusts how paid parking is managed across the city, specifically addressing feedback from residents, business owners, and employees regarding the recent rollout of the city's paid parking program. The changes aim to ensure neighborhood parking remains more affordable than downtown areas and provides more accessible payment methods.
What's in the file
The ordinance amends several sections of the Codified Ordinances of Cleveland to update on-street paid parking regulations. According to the 522-2026-Legislative Summary, the legislation includes the following provisions:
- Requires that a method for paying with cash and coins be available within 600 feet of every individual street parking space.
- Lowers parking rates in neighborhoods located outside the Downtown Parking Area.
- Codifies specific days and times the Director of Public Works is authorized to charge for parking.
- Mandates that any new parking meter zone established after May 15, 2026, must be approved by City Council.
- Requires the Director to report to Council regarding implementation and parking data one year after the ordinance's effective date.
The authorized parking rates and schedules are outlined below:
| Location/Type | Rate/Schedule |
|---|---|
| Neighborhood (up to 8 hours) | $1.00 per hour |
| Neighborhood (after 8 hours) | $3.00 per hour |
| Downtown (Mon-Thu) | 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. |
| Downtown (Fri) | 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
| Downtown (Sat) | 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. |
| Neighborhood (Mon-Fri) | 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. |
Who may be affected
- Downtown Parking Area: Subject to specific hourly charging windows during the week and on Saturdays.
- Neighborhoods (outside Downtown): Will experience lower hourly rates during weekday business hours.
- Residents, business owners, and employees: The legislation was prompted by concerns raised by these groups regarding the previous administration's parking rollout.
Status and timeline
The ordinance has passed and is currently in effect.
- 2026-04-16: The ordinance was introduced to City Council.
- One year after effective date: The Director of Public Works must report implementation and parking data to Council.
Residents can verify every claim in this article by reviewing the official source record.
| Up to 8 hours | $1.00 |
|---|---|
| After 8 hours | $3.00 |
Source record
- File
- 522-2026
- Type
- Emergency Ordinance
- Status
- Passed
- Committee
- City Council
- Introduced
- April 15, 2026