San Marcos City staff announce $5 out-of-area fee at Ria Vista, education-first enforcement

San Marcos City staff announced that beginning June 20 they will charge a $5 fee to visitors they categorize as "out of area" for entry at Ria Vista, part of a managed-access program they say cut litter and improved compliance during its first year.

An agency official said the city saw "a huge reduction in litter" and "a lot more compliance with our park rules," which staff described as leading to a more enjoyable experience for both patrons and local residents. A separate staff member said the community "very much values our river and the preservation thereof," and outlined an education-first approach to enforcement that includes rules posted on fences and reminders from park rangers, deputy marshals and park ambassadors.

"We will be implementing a $5 fee on June 20 for anyone that is out of area," the agency official said, adding, "It's not a river access fee." Staff clarified that the fee will apply only at Ria Vista, and not to other river access points within the city's roughly 120 acres of riverfront parks. The official noted that visitors can put in at City Park, float down and exit at Ria Vista without paying a fee if they began their trip upstream.

The city defined "out of area" in the announcement as anyone outside San Marcos city limits or outside the San Marcos school district boundary. The transcript also records staff mentioning "7866" in connection with a ZIP code; staff did not provide further verification of that numeric reference during the remarks.

Local residents will be able to register for a Ria Vista River pass. Staff said residents may receive a digital pass on a smart device or obtain a wristband from the parks and recreation office; wristbands will be available starting June 18. Staff repeatedly emphasized that the initial approach will focus on education and voluntary compliance, and that enforcement actions are a secondary step if necessary.

The announcement did not record a council vote or other formal approval during these remarks; staff presented the implementation date and operational details as the immediate plan. The Parks and Recreation office is expected to oversee distribution of passes and on-site compliance; staff said signage and personnel will be used to inform visitors of rules and alternatives.

The city has not stated a process for appeals, exemptions or refunds in the remarks provided. The department did not specify whether revenue from the fee will be earmarked for park maintenance or another purpose.