In Merklingen, Baden-Württemberg, residents and the municipality faced a problem of long-term parking of motorhomes and caravans in the town center. About 35 spots on central streets were occupied for weeks and even months, causing dissatisfaction. Local authorities, including mayor Sven Kneipp, noted that under traffic regulations such vehicles may park for up to two weeks, but monitoring compliance is labor-intensive and ineffective. After unsuccessful talks with owners and a fine of 25 euros for exceeding the time limit, the municipality decided to introduce a parking zone for passenger cars only. This will exclude motorhomes and caravans, and violators face a fine or towing. The local council supported the decision; installing signs will cost a few hundred euros.
