At the start of 2021, many things are evolving! This is specially the case of the parking rules of the Portuguese Iberian Peninsula. So what is really changing and how do you park in motorhome in Portugal?
Over the years, motorhomes (and recreational vehicles in general) have experienced a very strong growth and have become real keys of the tourism sector in Portugal. So, the regulations about parking in motorhome in Portugal have evolved.
The Portuguese government amends the Highway Code and establishes decrees n°24/2020 and 102 B/2020
What are the new 2021 rules to park in motorhome in Portugal?
It has been official since January 2021, parking in motorhome in Portugal is now prohibited outside of the places authorized for this purpose. So, any step in your trip – whether it is during the day to park or at night to sleep – must be done in campsites or areas only suitable and reserved for motorhomes. And this until further notice. These new directives were mainly taken within the framework of health measures related to Covid19 to fight against the pandemic.
How is this regulation applied? And for whom?
Some points still need to be clarified concerning parking in motorhome in Portugal. For example, to what extent can and will this new law be applied? How the authorities are going to “keep an eye” on all the tourist spots? Moreover, it is important to note that the legislation is very broad and concerns motorhomes and all similar vehicles. So, this new rule also includes campervans and converted vans.
What are the risks for non-compliance with the rules?
The bill could be huge for parking outside the places provided for motorhome… Non-compliance with this new regulation to park in motorhome in Portugal may be penalized with a fine of 60 to 300 euros. The fine can even go up to 600 euros when parking is considered as an environmental offense according to the Republican National Guard (in other words, especially in protected areas or those of the Natura 2000 network).
What are the solutions to park in motorhome in Portugal?
If you do not want to give up on your next trip to Portugal, don’t worry, other options are available for you. Of course, you have the possibility – as mentioned in the law – to park in campsites, service areas or park sites reserved for motorhomes. Whether it is the day to park or at night to sleep.
Tip: On CaraMaps, a pop-up warns you about this parking rule issue. Please do not hesitate to let us know about a place that is temporarily or permanently closed. Thank you for your help and your participation in the development of our platform!
On the same subject you can also read our other blog posts: « your 10 favorite motorhome areas of January » and « where to park in motorhome during the covid ».
And do not forget, enjoy your trip in motorhome, caravan and camper van with CaraMaps!
Have a look on the laws texts or press articles on the subject and follow the news: