When it comes to HOA parking, we all share a common goal: to make our communities better to live in, easier to manage, and more valuable to own. But common parking problems like overflowing lots and lack of guest parking can get in the way.
Here are the top five HOA parking problems and ten solutions—because residential parking management software like Stellar Parking is one of the best ways to solve these issues!
Problem #1: Limited space in the parking lot
With more people working from home, parking lots are busier than ever. According to the 2022 Renter Preferences Survey Report from the National Multifamily Housing Council and Grace Hill, about two-thirds of renters expect to be teleworking just as much in 2023 as they did in 2022. This means more cars, someone else in your spot, and neighbors with too many vehicles.
Limit number of vehicles per resident
Allow each unit a set number of vehicles, such as two. You can also charge for extra vehicles to manage space better and generate some extra income.
Limit guest parking
Designate guest parking spaces clearly. You can also set time limits for guest parking or even charge for it to ensure these spots are used appropriately.
Problem #2: Difficulty enforcing parking violations or repeat offenders
Paper parking permits are outdated and can be easily discarded, making it hard to catch repeat offenders or provide evidence for towing. Unregistered vehicles can also be a problem, whether they belong to residents or guests.
Require all vehicles to register
Make sure all vehicles, both residents and guests, are registered. This helps prevent unauthorized parking and enhances safety.
Amp up your parking enforcement
Regular patrols by your staff can help identify unregistered vehicles and issue parking violations. Track violations to catch repeat offenders and maintain order.
Problem #3: Trouble paying for parking
Your community could be losing money if residents aren’t paying for extra vehicles, guests aren’t paying for additional parking time, or parking violations are being overlooked. This also undermines the credibility of your parking rules.
Enforce resident vehicle limits
Set a limit on the number of vehicles per unit and charge for any additional vehicles. This controls the number of vehicles and generates extra revenue.
Implement paid guest parking
Offer a limited amount of free guest parking time per unit, then charge for additional time. Customize your charges based on hourly, daily, or overnight rates.
Problem #4: Full guest parking
Guest parking can be challenging, especially when spaces are filled by residents, nearby businesses’ visitors, or long-term guests. This is frustrating for both visitors and residents who expect their guests to have a space.
Digital parking permits
Require all guests to register for a digital parking permit. This helps you keep track of how long a guest has been parked.
Guest parking time limits and fees
Set time limits for guest parking to ensure fair access for all visitors. After a certain amount of free time, charge a fee for parking to manage usage and generate income.
Problem #5: Tracking resident vehicles and unauthorized parking
Many households have multiple vehicles, leading to unauthorized parking. Residents might not register all their vehicles or might duplicate generic hang tags.
Register and limit vehicles per unit
Register all vehicles to identify unauthorized ones and limit the number of vehicles per unit to manage space effectively.
Don’t allow residents to use guest parking
Clearly designate guest parking and enforce rules to prevent residents from using these spots.
Have another HOA parking problem? We can help.
Our communities are full of real people with places to go and things to do, making parking problems feel complex. But Stellar Parking delivers ready-made solutions for HOA parking issues, no matter how tricky! See it in action and learn how it could work for your community by scheduling a demo with our experts today.
