Parking Rules

Legal parking spots include: marked parking bays (free or paid), car parks, private property with permission, and unrestricted roadside areas where not prohibited. Illegal spots include: yellow/red lines, crossings, junctions (within specified distances), bus stops, disabled bays without permit, and blocking access. When in doubt, find a car park.

Parking signs indicate: whether parking is allowed or prohibited, time restrictions (days/hours), duration limits, payment requirements, and permit zones. Blue signs typically indicate permitted parking with conditions. Red circles with symbols indicate prohibitions. Always read all signs in an area as conditions may be complex.

Disabled parking bays are reserved for vehicles displaying valid disabled permits. Using these without authorization results in significant fines. Permits must be displayed visibly. Rules about who can obtain permits vary by country - typically those with serious mobility impairments. Misuse is strictly enforced.

Pay promptly as fines often increase if unpaid. You may have a short period for reduced payment. You can usually appeal if you believe the fine is unjust. Unpaid fines can escalate to court action, vehicle clamping, or towing. Foreign vehicles can be traced through EU systems.

Tow-away zones are areas where illegally parked vehicles are removed and impounded. Common in city centers, near transit hubs, and emergency routes. Retrieving your vehicle requires paying the fine, towing fee, and storage fees - often several hundred euros. Prevention is far cheaper than retrieval.

Yes, most cities now offer parking apps that let you pay by phone. You register your vehicle, select the zone, and pay for time needed. Some apps remind you when time is expiring. Benefits include not needing coins and ability to extend remotely. Download local apps before visiting new cities.