The 7 Deadly Sins of Parking in Spain

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? It turns out 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. Their message? Lazy parking could leave you lighter in the wallet.

Sin Number 1: 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 the DGT, it disrupts public order and could easily fall under general sanctions for improper use of public road space. And the punishment? A whopping €200 fine. That’s a lot of tapas down the drain.

But the DGT isn’t just cracking down on space-hoggers. There’s a whole line-up of costly parking sins that could catch out even the most seasoned driver.

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 spots are for those who genuinely need them. 

Sin Number 4: Blocking zebra crossings or 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 this enforced? And a burning question is, what about parking immediately in front of a zebra crossing so that pedestrians and cars can’t see each other? What about planting trees and plants next to zebra crossings? 

Sin Number 5: Loading zones  

Parking in a loading/unloading bay outside the permitted hours is one that catches many tourists out. It’s not always clear when people are allowed to park in these and when not. Many Spanish and foreign drivers avoid them altogether just in case. Another €200 fine could be coming your way if you’re not careful with these.

Sin Number 6: Parking on roundabouts

OK, so this is one you see all the time. Outside schools, outside hospitals, even just for the hell of it, to pick someone up, drop someone off, or just to go for a nice long relaxing stroll. In theory, you can’t park on a roundabout in Spain, but in practice it’s not enforced unless A) you’re parking on a busy roundabout, or B) you’re blocking traffic. This means that if you decide to park on a roundabout in an industrial estate with very little traffic, if you make it hard for trucks to get past you, your car will be towed and you’ll be fined. As always, if in doubt, don’t do it.

Sin Number 7: Not playing by local rules

It’s not just about what not to do. The DGT reminds drivers to always check local signage before parking. Spain’s municipalities often have their own rules, so what’s okay in Marbella might land you in hot water in Madrid. The safest bet? If in doubt, use regulated zones or official public car parks.  

So park smart, Spain-watchers. And let us know if we’ve missed any ‘parking sins’ that really grind your gears. Comment below!

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