Starting September 1st, 2025, Petco parking will quadruple before and during large events, with over 10,000 attendees. This comes as the result of balancing the city’s budget, in part by increasing parking rates. The new $10 hourly rate will apply to all parking meters within a half-mile of Petco. To increase awareness of this change, 400 ‘special event zone’ signs will be installed.
Which events will qualify for the new parking rate?
Wondering how to know if an event that you plan to attend is considered large enough? You can check the city’s website for qualifying events here. The new signs in the parking will also feature a QR code that leads you to the same website.
So far, the list features Padres games, Savannah Bananas games, Chris Brown’s concert, and the November WWE: Survivor Series.
New Petco parking rate schedule
The special parking rates begin two hours before scheduled Padres games or other big Petco Park events, and remain in effect until four hours following the event’s start time. So if a concert begins at 7 PM, the Special Event parking rates will be in effect from approximately 5 PM through 11 PM.
Alternatives for parking by Petco Park
The initiative, according to the city, aims to “reduce congestion by discouraging drivers from circling for free or cheap parking near the stadium.” So, does that leave us with no choice? If you’re looking to park right by Petco…yes.
However, most yellow commercial zones in the city are in effect until 6 PM, so those are an option for games or shows that start around 7 PM.
Are there other parking increases in San Diego?
The city plans to introduce a couple of new parking districts, which will feature paid parking. One of those will be located by Balboa Park – with 300 new spots, charging $2.50 an hour for a maximum of four hours between 8 AM – 8 PM. This change kicks off on January 5th, 2026. Discounts are available for San Diego residents:
- Level 1 Parking Lots: Verified resident rate: $5 for up to four hours; $8 full day; Nonresident rate: $10 for up to four hours; $16 full day
- Level 2 Parking Lots: Verified resident rate: $5 per day; Nonresident rate: $10 per day
- Level 3 Parking Lot: Verified resident rate: First three hours free; $5 full day; Nonresident rate: First three hours free; $10 full day
Revenues from the parking fees paid within the park will go towards Balboa Park, on projects such as maintenance, infrastructure and visitor amenities.