Parking in Spain: The 7 Deadly Sins

We’ve all seen it—some motorist rocking up in their pride and joy and carelessly straddling two parking spots like they own the street. But is it just annoying… or downright illegal? The answer is yes. The word that parking like a plonker in Spain could cost you up to €200.

The Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT), Spain’s traffic authority, has fired off a warning that’ll make you think twice before leaving your wheels wonky. The message they’re sending? Parking lazily could cost you more money.

The first sin is taking up two spaces.

While not always listed on street signs, taking up two spaces—whether on purpose or by poor parking—is a classic case of “estacionamiento indebido“ (improper parking). According to DGT, it can disrupt public order. You can easily get in touch with us by clicking here. Fall under general sanctions It is not a good idea. Use of the public road space The punishment? A whopping €200 fine. This is a lot tapas wasted.

The DGT doesn’t only crack down on those who take up too much space. Even the most experienced drivers can be caught out by a number of expensive parking mistakes.

Sin Number 2: Double parking  

You might think ‘It’s just for a minute,’ but double-parking blocks traffic, winds up other drivers, and earns you a neat €200 fine. No excuses.

Sin Number 3: Sneaking into disabled bays  

Even if it’s “just popping in for milk,” parking in a disabled space without a permit is a serious offence and lands you another €200 fine. These parking spaces are reserved for those in real need. 

The fourth sin is blocking zebra crossings and pavements  

Park across a pedestrian crossing, on a pavement, or in a pedestrian zone, and you’re not just risking a fine—you’re putting lives at risk. Fines? You guessed it: €200. Is it enforced? A burning question: What about parking directly in front of a crossing so pedestrians and vehicles can’t see one another? What about planting trees or plants near zebra crossings to block out the cars and pedestrians? 

Sin Number 5: Loading zones  

Parking in an unloading/loading bay after hours of operation is not permitted This is a great one to catch Many tourists are out. The exact time people arrive and depart isn’t always known. You are allowed to Park in them and when to avoid it Many Spanish and foreign motorists avoid them completely just in case. Another €200 fine could be coming your way if you’re not careful with these.

Sin Number 6: Parking on roundabouts

This is a common sight. You see this one all the time. The following are some of the ways to get in touch with us: Go for a relaxing long walk. You can’t in theory park on a Spanish roundabout, but you are allowed to do so in practice. Practice This is not enforced when you are parking on a roundabout that’s busy or if you’re blocking the traffic. If you park on a busy roundabout, or in an industrial estate where there is little traffic, it’s not enforced. traffic, If you block trucks from passing, you will have your car towed away and fined. In case of doubt, it’s best to avoid the situation.

Infraction number 7: Failure to play by local rules

You can’t just focus on what you want You can also check out our other blog posts. to do. The DGT reminds drivers to always check local signage before parking. Spain’s municipalities often have their very own rules. So what is fine in Marbella may not be okay in Madrid. What’s the best bet? When in doubt, park your car in a regulated zone or an official public parking lot.  

So park smart, Spain-watchers. And let us know if we’ve missed any ‘parking sins’ that You can also find out more about the following: grind your gears. Comment below.

You want more stories about expats or travellers in Spain like this? Give us a nudge and we will bring you wisdom in the form of wheels.

Stay tuned for updates News for Spanish residents.

Find out more about the latest news. Europe.