Destin, Florida – The City of Destin has started giving free annual parking passes to residents who meet certain requirements. This makes it easier for those who live in the city to get to popular paid parking places and saves them money. The distribution started in early January, and officials said that a lot of people were interested in getting new or updated passes.
People who live in Destin’s incorporated regions can get annual passes. Each household can only get two passes. Residents must bring a valid driver’s license with a Destin address on it, as well as information about their vehicle’s registration and tag. You can fill out applications in person at Destin City Hall or the Destin Community Center, or you can do it online through the city’s official website.
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The cards let you park for free at a number of popular places that usually require payment for parking. These include parking lots along Scenic Highway 98 in Crystal Beach, Gulf Shore Drive on Holiday Isle, and the Destin Harbor District (view the map here). City officials say the program is meant to make it easier for people to get to these places without having to pay for parking every day, especially during busy times.
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The city has set up a grace period for all of January 2026 to assist make the change go more smoothly. Residents can still use their 2025 parking cards while they wait for new ones to be sent to them. The temporary allowance is meant to keep things from getting interrupted and give families time to get the papers they need.
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Destin is giving people more ways to get about besides the free annual parking tickets. For $30 per household, you can get a pass to Henderson Beach State Park. Seniors can get a pass for $25. The first decal given to city residents for Joe’s Bayou Launch and Recovery is free for boaters. It costs $50 for extra decals, but $205 for people who don’t live there. Residents who want to get Joe’s Bayou passes must provide proof of current vessel and trailer registration and a valid driver’s license.
City officials want people to apply early to make sure they can always get to their parking spots and to get the most out of the new parking program.
