Parking

Whether you're heading into historic downtown New Braunfels for shopping, dining, or nightlife...or if you're headed to the Comal or Guadalupe Rivers, there's plenty of parking for everyone! But knowing where to go, or what to expect when you get there is important!

Follow the links below to learn more about on-street paid parking downtown, free parking lots, paid parking lots for river access, or (if you're a New Braunfels resident) how to get a free Resident River Parking Permit.

Approved Changes to Downtown Parking

At their meeting on May 27, 2025, New Braunfels City Council approved amending the downtown parking ordinance to officially establish paid parking areas and fees in downtown New Braunfels beginning July 7^th, 2025.

In March 2025, New Braunfels City Council approved entering into a contract with Interstate Parking to be the City’s parking management company for both Downtown New Braunfels and the City's river parks. The river parking management portion of that contract officially launched on April 1^st, allowing New Braunfels residents to register for their free Resident River Parking Permits online.

The changes to the downtown parking system create zones of both free and paid parking options for on-street parking and off-street parking lots, with the goal of alleviating congestion and freeing up parking spaces in high-demand areas. Approximately one third (or 238 parking spaces) of the existing 750 on-street parking spaces downtown are being moved into the paid parking program. Under the newly revised ordinance, those on-street parking spaces will transition from what are currently 2-hour parking zones to a digital paid parking system where the first hour of parking is free. Each additional hour after the first hour will cost $2 per hour, with a maximum fee of $10 per day (plus processing fees), and parking fees will be enforced 7 days a week, from 10am to 10pm.

Instead of payment kiosks, drivers will scan a QR code with their smartphone to access Interstate Parking’s secure digital payment platform where they will be prompted to enter their contact information, license plate number, and payment information. Pay-by-Text and Pay-by-Phone options will also be available. Those with disabilities whose vehicles are displaying official state-issued license plates or disability placards are exempt from parking fees. As part of their contract, Interstate Parking is providing Parking Ambassadors to help drivers find available parking, assist with payments, and monitor parking spaces for violations. Interstate Parking has also opened a physical office in the downtown area, which is temporarily located at 162 South Seguin Ave.

Cost

Under the approved plan, downtown on-street parking will be free for the first hour, then $2 per hour for each additional hour, with a maximum fee of $10 per day.

First Hour - FREE
1-2 Hours - $2
2-3 Hours - $4
3-4 Hours - $6
4-5 Hours - $8
5 Hours or more - $10

A 4% fee and credit card processing fees will also be applied. Those with disabilities whose vehicles are displaying official state-issued license plates or disability placards are exempt from parking fees.

View the presentation given to New Braunfels City Council on October 20, 2025: VIEW PRESENTATION

Enforcement

Interstate Parking will be providing Parking Ambassadors that can help drivers find available parking, assist with payments, and will monitor parking spaces for violations. Violations of the proposed ordinance would lead to a $100 parking citation. However, if the citation is paid within 10 days, the fine is reduced to $65.

You can reach Interstate Parking by calling 830-264-2277 or by email at info@parknbtx.com.

River-access parking lots are Pay-to-Park, a program that is administered by Interstate Parking.

Parking fees are non-refundable.

Using an outfitter?

River Outfitters typically have on-site parking at no charge AND they provide shuttle service to and from the river. Contact the outfitter of your choice for more information.

Are You a New Braunfels Resident?

Residents of New Braunfels are eligible for a free Resident River Parking Permit, among other resident-only benefits. View the Resident River Parking Map.

IMPORTANT: Parking along most residential streets is prohibited.

Around New Braunfels, there are neighborhoods and residential streets where on-street parking is only allowed by those with the proper permit. These areas are clearly marked with "Parking By Permit Only" signage. To see where these areas are, refer to the Parking by Permit Map.

If you are a resident in one of these areas and would like to apply for a parking permit, you will need to fill out the Parking by Permit Application. You will need to provide current proof of residency (driver's license, photo ID, current utility bill, lease, or mortgage document).

Residents who live in Parking by Permit areas are entitled to four parking permits at no charge. Those residents can also get Temporary Daily Parking Permits for guests. If you are a resident that lives in an area without permitted parking and would like the City to consider creating a Parking by Permit area, please fill out the Request for Parking by Permit form.

Visit the Parking by Permit page for additional details.