Even though almost everyone does it regularly, this practice is strictly prohibited by law. And the fines and sanctions for offenders are particularly severe.
With the arrival of sunny days, many of us feel the urge to give our car a clean. The idea of getting out the garden hose and sponge to wash your vehicle in front of your house may seem appealing. However, this seemingly innocuous action is actually prohibited by law, and the consequences can be severe.
Indeed, according to article 99-3 of the Health Regulations of the majority of departments in France, it is strictly prohibited to wash your car on public roads (therefore in the street and in parking lots), in parks and public gardens. , and even on banks, ports and quays. This ban may seem surprising, but it aims above all to protect the environment. The water used for washing the car, often mixed with chemicals, hydrocarbon residues and oils, can seep into the ground and pollute groundwater. In addition, wash water that flows onto public roads can contain contaminants that are harmful to plants, animals and humans.
If you break this rule, you risk a fine of up to 450 euros. Worse still, if wastewater spills from your washing cause proven pollution, the penalties can rise to a fine of 75,000 euros and up to two years in prison. Serious consequences for a simple car cleaning!
To stay legal, you can opt for dry cleaning at home. Specially designed cleaning products allow you to clean your car without using a single drop of water. Not only is it legal, but it is also an excellent way to preserve water resources, which are particularly precious during periods of intense heat. Another technique: use ecological products. Environmentally friendly, they allow you to wash your car without fear of polluting.
But the best solution is to clean your car at a car wash. These facilities are equipped with wastewater recovery and treatment systems, ensuring that the water used to wash your vehicle is properly treated before being discharged. They have specialized tools (high-pressure cleaner, vacuum cleaner, etc.), offer various options (automatic or manual washing, ecological products), and save you from additional chores such as connections and storage. In short, even if the urge to wash your car in the street in front of your house or in a parking lot is tempting, refrain!