Residents and visitors in Salmon Arm should prepare for new parking rules. Paid parking enforcement will soon begin at key spots near the cenotaph and Fletcher Park. The new policy comes as the city expands its paid parking system.
The official start date for enforcement is August 15. Until that date, drivers won’t receive fines. Instead, the city will issue courtesy notices to remind people of the new rules. This grace period is meant to give everyone time to adjust.
The expanded parking zone includes several streets and a new lot. On 2nd Avenue NE, paid parking runs from the east end of Fletcher Park on the south side and from the rear of the fire hall on the north. It continues toward Okanagan Avenue, covering areas both to the south and north of the street. On Okanagan, it stretches from 1st Street to just past 3rd Street.
One of the key areas now included is the newly built parking lot to the east of the cenotaph. This lot adds several new spaces to the city’s paid parking system.
Parking meters have already been installed in these areas. The city confirmed that they are fully operational, but active enforcement will not start until the grace period ends. Until then, anyone who forgets to pay or is unaware of the change will find a reminder slip on their windshield, not a ticket.
The city says this change helps manage high-demand areas. It is also part of a larger effort to improve traffic flow and make it easier to find parking downtown. Paid parking encourages turnover, which means more people can access shops, parks, and local services.
The area around the cenotaph and Fletcher Park is often busy, especially during weekends and events. City officials noted that the new paid spots should reduce long-term parking in these zones and allow more visitors to access the area when needed.
Residents who frequently park in the area may want to consider a monthly or annual pass. These passes are available through the city’s parking system and may offer savings for regular users.
For now, the city is focused on educating the public. Signs have been posted near the affected streets and in the new lot. Staff will also be on hand during the grace period to help drivers understand how the meters work.
Many of the meters allow payment through both coins and digital methods. QR codes on the machines will let users pay via smartphone. This flexible system is designed to make the process as smooth as possible for everyone.
The city encourages people to check official maps to see if the places they usually park now require payment. Information on pricing, hours of enforcement, and pass options is available on the city’s website.
This move follows similar changes in other parts of Salmon Arm. As the community grows, officials are working to create a balance between easy access and responsible parking use.
Drivers who regularly visit the cenotaph, Fletcher Park, or nearby businesses are urged to take note of the changes. After August 15, tickets will be issued to those who park without payment.
The city hopes the gentle approach until mid-August will help residents make the shift without stress. By giving people time and information, officials aim to make this transition smooth for everyone in the area.
