Oregon wants input on day-use parking permits in state parks

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is seeking public comment on a proposed rule change that increases day use parking permit rates.

The proposed rules will create rate ranges for day-use parking permits, similar to campsite and other facilities in state parks. The agency also is 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.

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

Daily Motor Vehicle: Increase from $5 to between $7 and $15.12-month Permit: Increase from $30 to between $40 and $60.24-month Permit: Increase from $50 to between $60 and $80.

Public comments on the proposed rule change will be accepted through 5 p.m. Friday, Aug. 30, and can be submitted online ; by mail at OPRD Department, attention Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301; or via email .

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

In Person Hearings: 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, Nehalem Bay State Park Meeting Hall, 34600 Garey St., Nehalem.5:30 p.m., Tuesday, Aug. 13, North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer Street N.E., Salem. Note: People must arrive by 6 p.m. to testify.Virtual Hearing: 5:30 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 21. Register to attend the hearing .

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 Jan. 1, 2025.