Some cars sometimes stay parked in the same place for a long time. However, there is a rule that it is better to respect to avoid problems.
Among motorists, a certain number do not use their car every day. In the outskirts of large cities, for example, many workers prefer public transport to get to the office. They can therefore do without their car sometimes for several days and thus save fuel. On the other hand, you must be able to find a place to park your vehicle. For those who have a garage or a parking space in their residence, the question does not arise. They can let their car “sleep” for as long as they want without having to move it. Which is not the case for those forced to find a place for them on the street.
Too few people know this, but there is a rule that sets the maximum time during which you are allowed to leave your vehicle parked in the same place. This has nothing to do with parking meters since it is possible to have paid for parking and still commit an offense. Indeed, the law defines the precise number of days during which a motorist can leave his car in the street without touching it. After this period, the police can intervene.
So, how long can you leave your car parked in the same parking space? Article R417-12 of the Highway Code sets the duration at 7 days. If after a week the vehicle is still in the same place – please note this duration can be reduced by municipal decree – whether it is parked in a parking space, along a sidewalk or even in a cul-de-sac managed by the municipality, parking is considered abusive.
If this comes to the attention of public highway surveillance officers (ASVP) or the police – most often from the mouth of a malicious neighbor – they will come and make a paint mark on one of the car’s tires , just where it comes into contact with the road. This is a landmark for them. If seven days later the vehicle has not moved an inch, then they come back to check it before issuing a ticket.
The fine for excessive parking is 35 euros. And in the event of absence, the police have the possibility of requesting the immobilization and impoundment of your car. The bill can then be closer to 200 euros. This scenario also often happens when people are traveling for more than a week and do not have a place to park their vehicle.
To avoid this type of inconvenience, solutions exist, such as leaving the vehicle at the airport or parking it in a private car park which often offers long-term parking options without the risk of receiving a fine. Otherwise there is still the solution of lending your car to a loved one while they are away. This has the advantage of costing nothing, but don’t forget to notify your insurance!