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Leaving your car window open while parked in Spain could now lead to fines of up to €1,500, depending on local regulations.
Credit : Pongsak A, Shutterstock
In some places, this mistake is now costly.
We’ve all done it. You parked your car in a warm climate, opened the window to let some air out, and then walked off without giving it a second glance. But in Spain, what seems like a harmless habit could land you with a hefty fine, up to €1,500, to be exact.
Many drivers only recently learned about this law after they were fined by the local police for parking their car with even a small window open. Many drivers have expressed their shock and dismay on social media. It’s evident that this rule has been enforced more often than ever.
You could be fined for leaving your window open
Local councils, who each have their own rules to follow, are the ones that set the fines. In some areas, the rules are very strict. Even if you leave a small window open, it can be a security threat, an invitation to thieves or cause problems for your vehicle if anything happens.
Some cities say they are focused on crime prevention. Others focus on road safety. Either way, if you’re parked with an open window, even just while popping into a shop—you might be seen as putting your car, and possibly others, at risk.
Even those who own motorhomes or campervans face a greater challenge. In many areas, they’re not allowed to park with anything left open—windows, awnings, steps—nothing, except for a roof vent designed for airflow.
This isn’t a Spanish thing. In Italy, for example, you could also be fined around €180 for the same thing. What is the difference? Spain’s penalty can be much higher depending on your location.
Avoiding fines when you leave your car window unlocked in Spain
You can protect yourself and your wallet by adopting a few simple practices:
- Close all your windows completely when parking—even if you’ll only be a minute.
- Be sure to read the local rules when you travel or stay in unfamiliar areas or towns.
- Don’t assume that the rules will be the same wherever you park your camper van or RV. You may be fined for something that is legal in one area but not in another.
- Keep an eye out for signs or alerts—especially in beach towns, historic centres, or areas with heavy tourist traffic.
When fines reach four digits, they’re worth taking seriously.
We all like to get some fresh air in the summer. The most expensive air is the one you get when you open the windows, unless you are in the driving seat.
The next time you park your car, crack open the windows to get some air. Just ask yourself: is it worth €1,500?
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