Some parking rules are changing in Guelph in 2026

There will be new rules for parking in Guelph in 2026. CTV’s Krista Simpson explains.

Changes are coming to parking in downtown Guelph.

Starting Jan. 1, 2026, drivers will have to pay to park in city lots and parkades 24/7.

It’s a change from free parking after 6 p.m., overnight and on Sundays.

The new policies were put in place as part of the 2026 budget process, and it’s estimated it will bring $300,000 in revenue to the city next year.

“We will still be offering in the downtown free two hour on street parking once per day, so that will still be available to shoppers and users that come to the downtown,” Ashley Kassian, program manager in Operations Administration at the City of Guelph, said.

Monthly permit rates are not changing.

Flouting the rules could lead to a $35 ticket.

Payments can be made via the Honk Mobile app or website, or at pay stations in the lots.

“It doesn’t matter which way you pay, all of the solutions do require you to use your license plate, then select the duration, and then you are basically on your way,” Kassian explained. “The expectation is that you park, pay and then you go.”

The new rates are as follows:

Daytime rates (8 a.m. to 9 p.m.)

• $3/hour
• Full day parking $24 maximum 

Evening rates (9 p.m. to midnight)

• $3 flat fee

Overnight rates (midnight to 8 a.m.)

• $3 flat fee

Saturday and Sunday

• $3 flat fee per day

Special Event parking

• flat rate of $5.50
• $3/hour for less than 2 hours