A Call for Fairer Parking at UCSB
Exorbitant fines and rising permit costs place an unnecessary financial burden on students. It's time for a system that prioritizes student success over revenue.
The Financial Impact
How a simple ticket creates significant financial stress.
Common Fine (e.g., Overtime)
$48
Standard Late Penalty
$48
Total Cost to Student
$96
Consequences
DMV Hold, Cascading Fees
What else could $96 cover?
A Week of Groceries
This fine forces a choice between paying a penalty and buying essential food.
A Required Textbook
Students may have to sacrifice required course materials, impacting their grades.
Nearly 6 Hours of Work
Based on California's minimum wage, this represents a significant time commitment that could be spent studying.
Rising Permit Costs
Analysis of the Annual Student Commuter Permit.
2018-19 Academic Year
$450 (Baseline)
2022-23 Academic Year
$500 (+11% Increase)
2025-26 (Projected)
$575 (Total Increase: +28%)
A Three-Point Plan for Reform
Practical, proven, and student-focused solutions.
Education First
Replace first-time minor violation fines with a mandatory online "Gaucho Parking Primer" module. This approach prioritizes education over punishment, reducing accidental re-offenses and financial strain.
Financial Access
Implement a simple, online payment plan portal compliant with CA Vehicle Code 40220. This ensures that students facing financial hardship have accessible, clear options to resolve fines without incurring further penalties.
Fair Appeals
Abolish the "pay-to-appeal" requirement that creates a barrier to justice. Establish a student-majority Parking Appeals Committee to ensure impartial, peer-led reviews of all contested citations.
Help Make Fair Parking a Reality
Your voice is crucial. A simple email to Associated Students leadership can help push for these common-sense reforms.