Parking rules at Chatham public beaches generally require a resident/taxpayer sticker or a visitor pass during the summer season, which typically runs from the third Friday in June through Labor Day. Enforcement usually occurs between 9 AM and 5 PM.

Here's a breakdown for specific beaches and general rules:

Beaches Requiring a Sticker/Pass (Resident/Taxpayer or Visitor):

• Cockle Cove Beach
• Ridgevale Beach
• Harding's Beach
• Schoolhouse Pond: This is primarily for residents/taxpayers and requires a sticker. Non-resident stickers are not honored here.
• Lighthouse Beach (Bridge Street Parking): A resident/taxpayer sticker or a Chatham Beach pass (for non-residents) is required for on-street parking on Bridge Street to access Lighthouse Beach. This is enforced from July 1 to Labor Day, 9 AM to 5 PM.
• Other beaches may also require a sticker/pass.

Beaches with Free Parking (No Sticker Required):

• Pleasant Street Beach
• Forest Beach (limited parking)
• Oyster Pond Beach
• Jackknife Harbor Beach

Lighthouse Beach Specifics:

• The Lighthouse Beach Overlook has a strictly enforced 30-minute time limit for all vehicles, with no sticker required for this short-term parking.
• Parking on Bridge Street to access Lighthouse Beach requires a town-issued sticker/pass as mentioned above.

How to Obtain Permits:

• Online: Permits can be purchased through the Town of Chatham's Sticker Office webpage via City Hall Systems.
• In-person: Permits can also be purchased at the Sticker Office, located at 261 George Ryder Road, Lower Level Town Annex, Chatham, MA 02633. They accept cards, cash, or checks. Check their website for current hours.
• At Beach Huts: Non-resident (visitor) beach passes may also be available for purchase at the beach huts at Cockle Cove, Ridgevale, or Harding's Beach.

Permit Fees (Non-Resident/Visitor - as of latest information, subject to change):

• Daily: $20.00
• Weekly: $75.00
• Seasonal: $175.00

Important General Rules & Notes:

• Paperless System: While some towns use paperless systems, it appears Chatham still issues stickers/passes that need to be displayed.
• Non-Refundable: All beach parking permits are non-refundable.
• No Camping/Overnight Parking: Town of Chatham beaches and beach parking areas are generally closed from 10:00 PM until one hour before sunrise. Camping or sleeping after dusk in park or beach areas is banned.
• No Littering: Littering of beach or park areas with rubbish or refuse is prohibited and subject to penalty.
• Speed Limit: No person shall operate any motor vehicle in any park or beach area at a rate of speed greater than 15 miles per hour.
• Designated Parking: Parking is only allowed in designated parking spaces. Marked roadways, lanes, and emergency vehicle lanes must be kept open.
• Dogs: Dogs and other pets are generally not allowed on public beaches, tidal flats, landings, and public ponds between May 1st and October 1st.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it's always best to check the official Town of Chatham website or contact their Sticker Office or Parks and Recreation Department directly