San Francisco Rec & Park is planning to roll out parking meters in Golden Gate Park in January 1st 2027, for the first time in the park's 156-year history.

Last year, Mayor Daniel Lurie asked city departments to cut 15% of their budgets, leaving the Parks department with a $15 million annual deficit. In response, the Recreation and Park Commission voted to approve paid parking in GG Park, and the SF Board of Supervisors authorized it.

The paid parking policy was passed without a community input process.

Ironically, the same week that the new paid parking enforcement rates were announced, the Mayor held a press conference with Airbnb co-founder Brian Chesky to brag about a $100 million gift to fund “San Francisco’s World-Class Park System.” The large gift is being touted as part of “Mayor Lurie’s Family Opportunity Agenda, Work to Help San Franciscans Navigate Rising Cost of Living.” The Mayor’s office said that $100 Million dollar gift ‘builds on Mayor Lurie’s work to provide welcoming public spaces and affordable recreation opportunities for families and young people.”

At the same time, the Mayor is asking San Francisco’s residents to begin paying to visit their greatest park. Many residents, like seniors on fixed incomes and working families who already contribute through taxes for the upkeep and park maintenance, will no longer be able to afford to visit the park regularly.

Concerned San Francisco residents have started a petition addressing the new paid parking measure. The online petition states:

“We urge city officials to reevaluate this decision not only through the lens of fiscal policy but with consideration of community health and equality. By removing parking fees, supporting sustainable transportation options, and fostering partnerships with private and nonprofit organizations, we can maintain the balance between access and preservation without placing undue financial burdens on vulnerable citizens.

Join us in asking the city to retract this decision and explore more inclusive and creative funding solutions. Sign this petition to protect Golden Gate Park's accessibility and ensure it remains a welcoming place for everyone.”

Parking citations in Golden Gate Park are set to cost $107, will be enforced by park rangers, and fines collected will go directly to the parks department. SFRPD estimates they will bring in roughly $10 million in parking fees and citations per year. (Per Kron4 News)

Parking fees will vary by location and time. West of Crossover Drive, parking will cost $2.75 an hour until 6 pm every day, then drop to $1.25.

East of Crossover Drive, in the most visited sections of the park, the rates will be $3.50 an hour on weekdays and $4 on weekends until 6 pm. Overnight parking is not allowed