Paid parking begins in Boothbay Harbor started June 1, and this year returning visitors may notice the lack of blue on the kiosks. The town’s prior partner, Flowbird, was recently bought out, and all online payments will now be made through the ParkMobile app. Paid parking ends Oct. 12. Here’s a step-by-step guide:   

Have your license plate number ready: Each parking kiosk is a self-guided system that walks visitors through the parking process. Press start (fully depress the start button, not just tap it), enter the license plate number, insert payment method and choose how many hours you plan to park by pressing the “up” arrow. The rate is $2 per hour. ParkMobile may add more fees. Only electronic receipts are available.   

Card only: All parking meters in Boothbay Harbor accept debit or credit cards only. Some of the older-style meters, such as the ones on Oak Street, may look like they accept cash/coin, but they are also card-only. 

Don’t overpay: Enforced parking is from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. This means visitors only have to pay until 8 p.m., even if they plan to be parked past that time. However, the town asks that visitors not park overnight unless they have a permit or have permission from Police Chief Doug Snyder. 

Download the ParkMobile app: Want to skip the kiosk and go digital? Scan the QR code on the side of the kiosk to download ParkMobile, or find it in the App Store. Visitors will need to know their parking zone, which is on signage next to the kiosk. ParkMobile allows users to see nearby parking zones, remotely extend their parking time and customize when they’d like to receive an expiration reminder. Visitors can also access ParkMobile through their website browsers or by texting “Park” to 77223. If there are problems with phone service, free wifi is available in the Boothbay Harbor town office and local library.   

Get a permit: Anyone parking a Camper/RV or bus needs a permit from the Boothbay Harbor town hall website. The parking rate is $5 per hour. People interested in long-term parking can also apply for a permit. 

Ask for help: If all else fails, there will usually be Community Service Officers – wearing blue and black shirts – in public parking areas.  

More parking information is on the town website.