Hunting for a parking spot in Bay Shore can feel like a test, whether you commute on the LIRR, head to dinner downtown, or launch a boat at the marina. You want simple, clear rules so you can park with confidence and avoid tickets. In this guide, you’ll learn how permits work, what they cost, when meters are active, and how to apply. Let’s dive in.
How Bay Shore parking works
The Town of Islip runs Bay Shore’s municipal parking, including downtown lots, the LIRR station, marinas, and dock areas. You can find permit forms, maps, and rules on the Town’s central hub, the Municipal Parking Program page. Start here to view permits and rules.
Many Long Island commuter lots are managed by local towns, not the MTA. Bay Shore’s station parking follows Town of Islip rules. For context, paid commuter parking started in 2016, which explains today’s permit structure. See historical coverage of the fee launch.
LIRR commuter parking permits
Who needs a permit and where it’s valid
A Town-issued commuter permit lets you park in designated permit spaces at the Bay Shore Train Station. The sticker must match your vehicle and be attached to the rear bumper.
Costs and timing
As of Oct. 14, 2025, the application lists the annual fee at $90 for Town of Islip residents and $250 for non-residents. Permits expire on December 31, with pro-rated pricing later in the year. Always confirm the current year’s fee before you apply using the Bay Shore commuter permit application.
Where to apply and what to bring
Apply online or by using the Town’s form. Have your valid NY driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of residency if required. The forms list the program office at 40 Nassau Ave., Islip, NY 11751. Use the Municipal Parking Program page to access applications.
Rules you should know
- Lots operate 24 hours a day and enforcement is active.
- With a permit, parking is generally limited to 24 hours unless you are in a signed 72-hour space.
- The permit must be permanently affixed to your rear bumper and match your plate. It is non-transferable. Review the full rules before you park using the Commuter Permit Rules and Regulations.
Daily and weekend options
If you do not have a permit, daily and flexible parking options are available at pay stations and by mobile app in designated areas. Check the Town portal for current options and lot signage on site. Start at the Municipal Parking Program page.
Downtown Bay Shore parking
Employee permits
If you work downtown, an employee permit can make parking simpler. Fees are set by the Town and pro-rated by application date. See eligibility and the current schedule on the Employee Permit Application.
Residents and seasonal residents
Certain Bay Shore residents can apply for Bay Shore Resident (BSR) permits for back-lot parking near Main Street. The Town also offers a Town Seasonal Resident (TSR) program for specified summer curb parking areas. Review eligibility, required documents, and how to apply on the Resident Parking Permit application page and the Municipal Parking Program.
Meters, mobile pay, and free hours
Many numbered stalls downtown are metered. Most back-lots are free until 6:00 PM on weekdays. Main Street also has an Express 15-minute free zone. Pay stations and mobile payment are in use. Confirm current rules and zone numbers on the Municipal Parking Program page and always follow posted signs.
Bay Shore Marina and docks
Seasonal schedule and rates
Marina parking operates in season from May 1 through September 30. As of Oct. 14, 2025, the Town’s informational card lists sample hourly rates: weekday “value lot” at $0.25/hour and other lots at $0.50/hour. Weekend and holiday rates show the value lot at $0.25/hour and other lots at $1.00/hour. The value lot allows overnight and long-term parking with limits. Always verify posted rules by lot. See the Marina informational palm card.
Boat launching and trailers
A single boat launch is $30. Islip residents can purchase an annual Boat Launching Permit for $75, which covers year-round launches and includes parking in oversized trailer spaces. Details are in the Marina informational palm card.
Maple Avenue Dock and ferry users
Maple Avenue Dock has its own seasonal permit and rules from May 1 to September 30. If you use the Fire Island ferries or work nearby, review the Maple Avenue Dock permit application for eligibility, designated areas, and restrictions.
Paying at meters and by phone
Bay Shore uses pay stations and a mobile pay option. The Town partners with ParkMobile for mobile payments. Learn more about the partnership in the ParkMobile announcement. Pay stations accept coins and credit cards. Town materials note you do not need to display a printed receipt, but keep proof of payment for your records.
Quick parking checklist:
- Confirm if the lot is Town-operated and whether it is permit, metered, or seasonal.
- Double-check your space or lot number before paying.
- Keep your mobile or printed receipt until you see it recorded correctly.
- If you buy a permit, have your license, registration, and proof of residence or employment ready.
How to avoid tickets
- Read posted signs and time limits before you park.
- Match your permit to the correct vehicle and attach it to the rear bumper.
- Respect the 24-hour limit at the LIRR lot unless you are in a signed 72-hour space.
- In marina lots, follow overnight rules by lot and the in-season schedule.
- Downtown, watch for metered stall numbers and free-back-lot timing.
Why this matters when you live in Bay Shore
Parking shapes your daily rhythm, from commuting to weekend plans. When you understand the rules, you save time and reduce stress. If you are weighing a move within Bay Shore or nearby, smart parking access can be one more quality-of-life factor to consider.
Have questions about neighborhoods, commuting, or local amenities as you plan your next move? Reach out to Romina Maturana for local guidance and a clear plan tailored to you.
FAQs
How much is a Bay Shore LIRR parking permit in 2025?
- As of Oct. 14, 2025, it is $90 for Town residents and $250 for non-residents; confirm current pricing on the commuter application.
Are downtown Bay Shore back-lots free on weekdays?
- Most back-lots are free until 6:00 PM on weekdays, while many numbered stalls are metered; always check posted signs and the Municipal Parking Program page.
When are Bay Shore Marina meters in effect?
- Marina parking runs in season from May 1 through September 30 with rates and overnight rules by lot; details are on the Marina informational palm card.
How do I apply for a Bay Shore downtown employee permit?
- Review eligibility and the fee schedule on the Town’s Employee Permit Application and follow the instructions to submit.
Can I leave my car overnight at the Bay Shore LIRR lot?
- Permits generally allow up to 24 hours of parking; some spaces are signed for 72 hours, and rules are detailed in the Commuter Permit Rules.
Where do I find all Bay Shore parking permits in one place?
- The Town’s central hub has links to all programs, maps, and forms; start at the Municipal Parking Program page.
