Hernando County Sparks Online Outrage by Charging for Local Park Parking

Today, Hernando County Parks and Recreation announced that it will resume charging parking fees at local parks starting October 1, 2025, prompting immediate reactions from residents on social media.

“I don’t think these parks are the destination you think they are. It would be reasonable if you’re drowning in visitors. But this just makes these parks even easier to ignore by locals and tourists. Make it make sense,” one Facebook commenter stated.

The county has partnered with ParkMobile to collect daily fees ranging from $5 to $10 at multiple parks across Hernando County. The fee schedule includes:

• $5 Daily: Pine Island Park, Lake Townsen Regional Park, Linda Pedersen Park, Nobelton Wayside Park, Rotary Centennial Park, WW Preserve Parking Lot, Hunter’s Lake Parking Lot, Biketrail Head Parking Lot
• $10 Daily: Bayport Park, Jenkins Creek Park, Roger’s Park, Hernando Beach Boat Ramp

An Annual Pass will also be available for $53.25, providing access to all Hernando County parks for 12 months. Passes do not guarantee reserved parking and will be offered through ParkMobile starting October 1.

Florida Disabled Parking Permit holders and Disabled Veteran Parking Permit holders will continue to be exempt from parking fees, provided disability tags or hangers are clearly displayed.

Despite being posted only hours ago, the announcement has already sparked debate online, with many residents questioning the need for fees at local parks. Some expressed frustration over short visits, with one person asking, “So if I want to watch the sunset for 5 minutes it’s $10 to sit by the pier?” Others suggested that tourists, rather than local taxpayers, should cover the cost, and requested senior or veteran discounts.

Similarly to the ongoing Boca Grande parking situation, the public reaction highlights the ongoing tension between Florida’s public spaces generating revenue while also ensuring access to community spaces.

“Call it what it is, a tax on a tax. We are already taxed for parks so another tax is only bs. Where is the money going?” another Facebook user wrote.

For more information about fees, annual passes, or park locations, visit www.HernandoCounty.us/Parks or contact the Parks and Recreation Office at (352) 754-4031.

How do you feel about the new parking ordinance? Let us know in the comments below.