News Summary

Starting March 1, 2025, Hilton Head Island will introduce mobile parking fees for public beach parks, ending free parking for non-residents during peak season. This change affects various beach parks and enforces penalties for non-compliance. Residents can obtain permits for free parking in two vehicles, while non-residents will incur fees on weekdays and weekends. The parking policies aim to improve management and enhance visitor experiences.

Hilton Head Island Prepares for New Mobile Parking Fees Starting March 1, 2025

Hilton Head Island will introduce mobile parking fees for public beach parks on March 1, 2025, ending the period of free parking for many visitors.

Key Changes to Parking Policy

• Free parking at Alder Lane, Driessen, Fish Haul, Folly Field, and Islanders beach parks will no longer be available for non-residents during peak season.
• The peak season runs from March 1 through September 7.
• Daily enforcement hours for parking fees are from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mandatory fees will also be introduced at Chaplin Community Park after the youth sports season concludes on May 19, 2025.

Local vs Non-Resident Parking Fees

Residents of Hilton Head Island may obtain free parking permits for up to two vehicles per household. This exemption does not apply to Beaufort County residents.

• Non-residents will pay:
• $3 per hour on weekdays, with a daily maximum of $15.
• A flat rate of $20 on weekends, regardless of duration.

Payment Process

Visitors must pay via mobile phone using their license plate number and debit or credit card information. Instructions for payment include:

• Texting “HHI” or scanning a QR code found on parking signs.
• Receiving a text warning when parking time is about to expire.
• Adding more time via mobile if needed.

Parking ambassadors will be on-site to assist with payment questions.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to pay parking fees will result in fines as follows:

• $50 for the first violation.
• Up to $500 for subsequent violations.
• A $25 late fee applies for fines not paid within 30 days.
• Towing or immobilization of vehicles may occur for violations.

Reason for Change

The Hilton Head Island Town Council approved the new parking ordinance in October 2024 to enhance parking management and improve the visitor experience.

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Additional Resources

• Island Packet: Hilton Head Parking Update
• Wikipedia: Parking Meters
• Island Packet: Beach Parking Changes
• Google Search: Hilton Head Island parking fees
• WTOC: New Beach Parking Fees
• Google Scholar: Parking Management
• MSN: Parking Changes in Hilton Head
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Parking
• WSAV: HHI Beach Parking Fees
• Google News: Hilton Head new parking fees

Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD

The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.