The municipality of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is tightening rules for parking motorhomes, caravans and other vehicles equipped for living. The municipal decree, signed in early August by Mayor François-Xavier Laffine, applies from May 1 to October 31 and prohibits overnight parking in natural areas, forests, and on all roads and public parking lots in the commune, including the town center, the Bossons and Pellerin districts, Le Pra and Le Bois, Argentière, and the upper valley up to Le Tour.
The decision is driven by high summer tourist pressure: overcrowded parking, inconvenience for residents, cleanliness issues, and potential hindrance to emergency services. Authorities also cite protection of natural areas, including reserves and Natura 2000 sites. Additional restrictions apply to vehicles over 2, 2.2 or 2.4 meters in height on certain parking lots. For overnight stays, authorities point to campsites and two dedicated parking areas: Parking Grépon Bus for vehicles over 7 meters and Parking Camping-car for vehicles under 7 meters, plus inter-municipal sites in Passy, Grand-Chauvilly and Sallanches.