The Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) has announced new parking rates and hours for Montgomery County-operated garages, parking lots, and street meters in Downtown Wheaton, expanding free parking opportunities for visitors.
Under the changes, effective as of July 1st, parking will now be free on Saturdays and after 6pm on weekdays. Parking on Sundays will continue to be free.
The Montgomery County Council approved the changes as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 budget process. According to MCDOT, the updated schedule reflects recommendations from the Wheaton Urban District following a community survey in which the adopted option was preferred by more than 60% of respondents.
The new parking schedule in Downtown Wheaton is as follows:
- County garages: Monday through Friday, 7am to 6pm, $1.75 per hour.
- County parking lots: Monday through Friday, 7am to 6pm, $2.00 per hour.
- On-street parking meters: Monday through Friday, 9am to 6pm, $2.50 per hour.
Parking rates in Downtown Bethesda and Downtown Silver Spring remain unchanged. Drivers who regularly park in Downtown Wheaton can continue to purchase a Wheaton Parking District Parking Convenience Sticker (PCS) Monthly Permit for $132 per month.
