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Law & Regulations

Law & Regulations
Law & Regulations
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JP Japan

Japan Tightens Oversight on Overloaded Trailers and Special Vehicles

Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism is strengthening measures against overloading of trailers and other special vehicles. Data shows 140,000–150,000 overload violations annually from 2021 to 2023, with about 5,000 out of 9,000 offending operators lacking permits. The ministry plans to revise regulations: issue warnings after a first violation for unlicensed vehicles, lower the threshold for administrative guidance from 20 violations in 3 months to 20 in 2 years, and facilitate criminal prosecution when road infrastructure is damaged.

Bahrain launches electronic deposit service for non-commercial camping

The Ministry of Municipalities and Agriculture of Bahrain, in cooperation with the Southern Governorate, has developed an electronic service for depositing and refunding the security deposit for non-commercial camping (Al-Bar season). The processing time has been reduced from 3 working days to automatic and instant, and the application steps to a maximum of three. Applications are submitted via the Southern Governorate app under the 'Khaym' initiative, with payment through approved electronic channels.

FR France

Converting a caravan into a guest room risks a heavy fine

Using a caravan as a permanent guest room on a property may be classified as illegal construction. Under French law, if the caravan loses mobility (wheels removed, placed on a concrete base) and is used for more than three months a year, it is treated as a building. The fine for such a violation can reach €90,000, and the court may order demolition with a daily penalty of up to €500 for non-compliance.

Retrospective plans for caravans and lodges at Llanrhystud park set to be approved

Council planning officers in Wales have recommended approval for a retrospective application to retain 36 static caravans and 15 lodges at Penrhos Park in Llanrhystud. The structures were built after 2019 planning permission but were not sited in the approved layout. The decision will be made by Ceredigion County Council's Development Management Committee on 10 June.

CH Switzerland 7

First 'Camper Day' in St. Gallen: police weigh 70 motorhomes and caravans

On June 6, 2026, the St. Gallen cantonal police held their first 'Camper Day' in Oberbüren. About 70 motorhomes and caravans were weighed on a bridge scale, and drivers received advice on permissible loads and the risks of overloading.

GB United Kingdom

Wick car park exploited by campervans as loophole threatens local campsite

In Wick, Scotland, campervan owners are parking overnight at the free Riverside Car Park, bypassing the paid Wick River Campsite. This has caused town centre congestion and threatened local trade. The community council discussed the issue on June 1, 2026, noting a lack of evening parking enforcement. Changing regulations requires a lengthy process, delayed since 2020.

US United States

RVIA Members Advance Four Key Priorities on Capitol Hill

During RVs Move America Week 2026, over 20 RVIA members met with NHTSA staff, and 103 participants held 142 meetings with federal legislators. Key asks include tariff certainty, inclusion of RVs in car loan interest deduction, reauthorization of the Legacy Restoration Fund, and joining the RV Caucus.

FR France

Over 150 caravans occupy Fayence airfield, reigniting debate on municipalities' obligations

More than 150 caravans have set up on the Fayence-Tourrettes airfield days before the French gliding championship. Mayor Olivier Baïlé stated he offered a temporary site on the southern part of the runway, but the group's representatives refused. The 2000 Besson law requires municipalities over 5,000 residents to provide stopping areas, but the Pays de Fayence has yet to establish a permanent solution. Désiré Vermeersch, president of the Grands Passages association, noted that the lack of equipped sites complicates evictions and called for equal accountability.

GB United Kingdom

Objections over plans to station Traveller caravans on land in village

Plans to station six caravans for Travellers on land at Beech Farm, Roundstreet Common, in Wisborough Green have been recommended for approval. The proposal includes six static caravans, utility buildings, and package treatment plants. Previously refused in August last year due to concerns about isolated location and water neutrality, an amended design has been submitted. Planning officers cited the council's lack of suitable Gypsy and Traveller pitches, with a shortfall of 13 pitches against a five-year target, as outweighing moderate harm to the landscape. A final decision is scheduled for June 10.

GB United Kingdom

Shetland Islands Council launches enforcement action against developer of caravan park built without planning permission

The Shetland Islands Council has initiated enforcement action against the developer of a caravan park near Grutness Harbour, built without planning permission. The site work, including concrete laying, electricity installation, and wastewater ducts, was carried out by contractor Bam Nuttall as part of the £35.1m Fair Isle ferry infrastructure project. The developer will likely need to submit a retrospective planning application; ignoring the notice is a criminal offense, potentially leading to fines or council-led remedial work at the owner's expense.

ES Spain

Tarifa Traders Association calls for orderly rules for motorhomes

The Tarifa Traders Association (ACOTA) has issued a statement amid the debate over motorhome parking in the city. The organization insists on equal application of regulations across all economic and social sectors, not just motorhome tourism. ACOTA proposed creating designated areas for parking and overnight stays to regulate the flow of travelers and reduce conflicts with residents.

BE Belgium

Brakel expands motorhome parking but introduces fees

The Belgian municipality of Brakel is reforming the popular motorhome parking area at the De Rijdtmeersen recreation site. The number of spaces will increase from four to twelve, but they will no longer be free. The change is driven by frequent occupation of regular visitor parking by motorhomes, which has drawn criticism. The new site will have a barrier, digital booking and payment via QR code, and free electricity will be discontinued. Construction is expected to start in spring 2027.

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