Spanish municipalities tighten parking rules for motorhomes and caravans

Málaga City Council unanimously approved a census of families living in informal motorhome settlements and a social intervention plan, citing rising numbers of people priced out of the housing market

Spain's traffic authority (DGT) has reminded of rules for sleeping in vehicles on the Canary Islands. Sleeping in a properly parked vehicle is allowed, but placing tables, chairs, or awnings outside is considered illegal camping and carries fines from €60 to €600. Fines may be higher in protected areas. Authorities also warn of heat and theft risks.

The Cantabrian government has installed wooden stakes along the Braña del Mozucu recreational area in Udías to prevent it from becoming an improvised parking lot for motorhomes and camper vans. The measure follows last summer when the site was used as a parking area, damaging the grass and trees and leaving litter. According to the local forestry chief, the barrier is already working, but its effectiveness will be tested during the peak tourist season.

The parking lot in Vall d'Uixó (Spain) after a €400,000 renovation now features 90 new trees, 2,000 plants, and 300 sq m of permeable pavement. Motorhome spaces have been increased to 20, tripling the previous capacity. The project is part of a broader €2 million+ site improvement that includes an archaeological museum and a pedestrian link to the Sant Josep natural area.

Operator R has started a tour of Galicia with an Airstream motorhome, offering residents of remote areas access to 5G technology and connectivity consultations. Inside, equipment demonstrates rural internet services (up to 1 Gbps via 5G), coverage solutions (femtocell), and VoWiFi. Smartwatch giveaways from vivo are also held. The route includes municipalities Caldas, Ordes, Arzúa, Melide, ending in early July in A Estrada and Cambados.

On July 1, 2026, the 10th Yakart Camino de Santiago motorhome route will start from A Coruña. 53 motorhomes and 120 participants will travel through Galicia for 12 days, finishing at the Obradoiro square in Santiago de Compostela.