City staff on Aug. 14 told Williamsburg City Council the city will switch to a Passport digital parking system on Aug. 18 that replaces the existing physical decals and hang tags with digital permits tied to license plates and a single online account.

Mark (parking staff) told council the change is “going from an analog way of doing business to a digital way of doing business,” saying residents will register once in a new portal, add vehicles, buy neighborhood permits for $5 per year and purchase guest passes through the same system. He said virtual neighborhood permits will be valid for a year and that permit processes will permit owners to add guest license plates or issue guest passes online.

Council members and multiple residents raised implementation questions during a lengthy discussion: how long enforcement will run, whether a hybrid (stickers + digital) option will be allowed, how the city will assist people who lack internet or who are uncomfortable with apps, whether guest passes can be renewed, how long guest passes remain active, how contractors and housekeeping staff will be accommodated, and whether enforcement will rely on license plate readers (LPRs).

Sean (enforcement staff) said license‑plate readers on enforcement vehicles will scan plates as ambassadors drive neighborhood streets and that officers carry an app to verify permits and issue citations if needed. Mark said staff will be lenient during an initial transition period and will provide support in person and by phone. The city will mail a notice to all permit streets directing residents to a dedicated parking webpage with an interactive map, instructions, and links; printed decals will remain valid through Aug. 31.

Residents at the meeting pressed for a public‑facing rollout plan and in‑person assistance: several speakers asked for an evening session or “drop‑in” help center where staff could guide landlords, renters and elderly residents through account creation. Staff said in‑person assistance at the parking office and phone support will be available, and a mailer to permit streets will go out immediately.

Council adopted ordinance 25‑10 at the same meeting to raise fines and create a stricter escalation schedule that staff said Passport requires. Several council members framed the higher fines as necessary to change behavior for repeat violators.

Ending: Staff said the city will monitor the roll‑out, publish FAQs on the new parking webpage, and offer in‑office and phone help to residents who need assistance registering vehicles or buying permits.