Reward Offered as Investigators Probe Vandalism That Disabled Balboa Park Parking Meters and Kiosks

Investigation focuses on damage that disrupted payment systems during early weeks of Balboa Park’s paid-parking rollout

Authorities are offering a reward for information as they investigate a series of vandalism incidents targeting parking meters and pay kiosks near Balboa Park, a string of damage that made multiple units unusable and complicated payment for visitors.

The incidents occurred during a period of major transition for the park’s parking system. Paid parking began in Balboa Park in early January 2026, ending a long-running practice of free parking and introducing a mix of metered curb spaces and paid lots with time- and location-based pricing.

What investigators say was damaged

Investigators have described a pattern of deliberate interference with payment hardware. Reports from the period indicate that vandals used substances and materials to obstruct card readers, coin slots and other components required to process transactions, leaving some kiosks unable to accept payment by cash or card. In at least one documented instance, investigators referenced the use of biological material believed to be fecal matter.

The damage was concentrated along Sixth Avenue in the Bankers Hill area, near the park’s western edge, where curbside pay stations serve park visitors and surrounding neighborhoods. Police have said the investigation remains open and that suspects had not been identified as of mid-January.

How the parking system works and what was at stake

Balboa Park’s current program includes metered parking on park roads such as Balboa Drive, El Prado, Juniper Road, Presidents Way and Zoo Drive, as well as adjacent corridors including Sixth Avenue and Park Boulevard. Posted rates for meters in and near the park are set at $2.50 per hour, with enforcement generally running daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. A resident-verification option and longer-term passes are also available through the city’s program.

City guidance to visitors during periods of meter malfunction has been consistent across the broader system: motorists are expected to seek another functional payment option and report broken equipment, rather than assume parking is free.

Recent policy adjustments add context

In early February 2026, the mayor announced adjustments to the Balboa Park paid-parking program that expanded free-parking zones for verified city residents and modified enforcement details. The changes followed public feedback and discussions with the City Council about how the rollout was affecting park users.

What authorities are asking the public to do

• Share information that could identify individuals responsible for damaging parking equipment.
• Report vandalized or non-functioning kiosks with location details and, when available, equipment identifiers.
• Use an alternate payment method or relocate to a functioning meter to avoid citations where parking rules remain in effect.

Investigators have emphasized that intentional damage to public equipment can carry financial consequences for repairs and staffing, in addition to disrupting day-to-day access for park visitors.