If you are concerned about access to our public shoreline and other recreational areas, you might wish to express your views about a new plan by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The department is seeking public comment on a proposed rule change that increases day use parking permit rates. (OAR 736-015-0030, 736-015-0043).

The proposal is to create rate ranges for day use parking permits, similar to those for campsites and other facilities in state parks. Rates might be adjusted according to such factors as the popularity of the site and the time of year. The fee amount would increase from the current $5 to a range of $7-15. The cost of long-term permits would also increase. Additionally, the agency is currently taking public comments on changes to the rate ranges for campsites and other facilities. Public comments on both sets of changes will be accepted together. 

Another change would be to give the OPRD director authority to impose day use fees at any location. At present, those OPRD facilities with day use fees are specified in the rule.

Once rate ranges are adopted into rule, the state parks director has authority to adjust fees based on visitation patterns, increased costs and seasonal fluctuations up to four times per year. Rate ranges were first adopted into rule in 2018 and implemented by the department in 2019. Day use parking permit rates were last updated in 2009, when the cost increased from $3 to $5.  

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

  • Daily Motor Vehicle – Increase from $5 to $7-15; 
  • 12-month Permit – Increase from $30 to $40-60; 
  • 24-month Permit -Increase from $50 to $60-80; 

Public comments on the proposed rule change will be accepted through 5 p.m. Aug. 30, and can be submitted: 

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

  • In-person hearing: Tuesday, Aug. 6, 2024, 5:30 p.m., Nehalem Bay State Park Meeting Hall, 34600 Garey St, Nehalem, OR 97131
  • In-person hearing; Tuesday, Aug. 13, 5:30 p.m., North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer Street N.E., Salem, OR 97301. Must arrive by 6 p.m. to testify.
  • Virtual Hearing: Wednesday, Aug. 21, 5:30 PM. Register to attend the hearing here. 

The department’s website has more information on the proposed changes. You can also comment via a form on this site.

Go here to take an online survey.

Photo: Sign at the entrance to Bob Straub State Park, by Linda Fink.

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