Evanston, Wyoming, drivers need to be aware of important updates and new regulations regarding parking rules effective in 2025. These changes aim to improve parking efficiency, ensure safety, and support downtown businesses, while offering some new conveniences for residents and visitors.
Metered Street Parking Updates
One of the key changes is the continuation of metered parking citywide, which is in effect from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Rates are set at $0.50 per 15 minutes, or $2.00 per hour.
Most downtown street parking near business districts has a two-hour limit; however, some locations allow four-hour or even 12-hour limits. Notably, metered street parking is free on Sundays, providing residents and visitors a day without fees.
Additionally, under a new monthly pilot program started in April 2025, metered parking is free from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the first Saturday of each month. This initiative encourages evening shopping and dining in downtown Evanston by eliminating parking fees during these hours.
Introduction of Zoned Pay Stations and App Payment
Evanston has introduced zoned pay stations that monitor parking time by license plate numbers, eliminating the need to display physical receipts. Drivers can pay with coins, credit cards, or the Park Evanston mobile app, which offers convenient options for prepayment and extensions.
Users entering their license plate number at pay stations should keep the number handy or take a photo to avoid errors. The app also waives the 35-cent service fee if two hours of parking time are purchased, making digital payment economical.
Residential Parking Permits and Snow Route Restrictions
Residents in designated neighborhoods with residential permits are exempt from time limits posted on signs within their permit zones. To obtain a permit, residents must provide proof of residence, payment of annual wheel tax, valid vehicle registration, and clearance of any outstanding parking tickets.
Additionally, Evanston enforces winter snow route parking restrictions: vehicles cannot park overnight on snow routes when more than two inches of snow is forecasted to avoid impeding snowplows.
Parking Violations and Penalties
Common violations like expired meters carry fines of $25, while more serious infractions such as street sweeping violations can incur $75 fines. Monthly parking permits for garages and surface lots are available if regular parking is needed, with fees ranging from $90 to $125 per month. Pay attention to all posted signs and pay stations to avoid citations.
Garage Parking and Holiday Parking
Evanston offers three self-park garages open 24/7 for long-term parking. Rates are $6 for up to five hours, with free parking available on Sundays and major holidays including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. These garages provide convenient alternatives for downtown visitors and employees.
Tips for Drivers
Always note the license plate number before paying at a meter or pay station.
Use the Park Evanston app for easy and fee-reduced payments.
Check for free parking days and evening hours on the first Saturday each month.
Avoid parking on snow routes during winter snow events.
Apply for residential permits if living in restricted neighborhoods to ease parking.
Evanston’s new parking rules balance convenience with enforcement to foster vibrant downtown activity and orderly public parking. Understanding these updates will help drivers avoid fines, support local businesses, and enjoy hassle-free parking in 2025 and beyond.
Sources
(https://downtownevanston.org/parking)
(https://www.spotangels.com/blog/expert-guide-evanston-street-parking/)
(http://www.evanstonwy.org/FAQ.aspx?QID=88)
(https://www.bridgervalleypioneer.com/stories/bridger-valley-pioneer-april-16-2025,65302)
(https://www.evanstonwyo.com/news/category/general-news-article)
