Spain legalizes campervan parking in cities; Madrid adds camper areas to tourism law

Royal Decree 518/2026, published in the BOE on June 26, 2026, amends Article 92 of the General Traffic Regulations, establishing three conditions for legal parking of motorhomes and camper vans: no protruding elements (awnings, tables, chairs), resting only on tires (chocks allowed), and no discharge of fluids from the living area. The rule takes effect on October 1, 2026. The reform also reallocates authority: municipalities retain the right to restrict parking times and zones but cannot fine solely based on vehicle type if conditions are met. In June 2025, 893 new motorhomes and campers were registered in Spain, a 25.4% increase year-on-year.

Amendments to Spain's General Traffic Regulations now permit motorhomes to park in cities like any other vehicle. The change, sought for over 15 years, highlights a growing trend of people using motorhomes as permanent housing due to the housing crisis. As of 2025, Spain has about 365,000 such vehicles, with over 7,000 new and 31,000 second-hand units sold last year. However, a legal grey area remains: no law prohibits living in a motorhome, but it is not recognised as a residence.

An amendment to Spain's General Traffic Regulations, published in the BOE, now allows motorhomes to park in cities without discrimination. The vehicle must not extend beyond its perimeter, rest only on tires (safety chocks allowed), and not discharge fluids. Municipalities retain authority over time limits, fees, and towing. The reform, sought for nearly 15 years, is seen as a milestone for motorhome tourism in Spain.

The Government Council of the Community of Madrid has approved amendments to the Tourism Law, legally recognizing new accommodation types: hostels and reception and overnight areas for motorhomes and camper vans. The reform introduces an article on insurance, explicitly states the principle of price freedom, and updates rules for access and stay at tourist establishments. In 2025, the region received 15.4 million visitors, with tourism contributing 8.7% of Madrid's GDP (€28.6 billion) — an all-time high.

The Madrid regional government approved amendments to the Tourism Organization Law, legally recognizing new accommodation types, including hostels and reception and overnight areas for motorhomes, camper vans, and similar vehicles. The reform also expands tourist rights and duties, introduces insurance requirements, and updates the penalty system. In 2025, the region received 15.4 million visitors, with tourism reaching a record 8.7% of GRP (€28.6 billion).

Motorhome registrations in Spain have tripled since 2015, reaching nearly 137,000 units. The General Directorate of Traffic attributes the growth to the pandemic and has simultaneously updated its inspection instruction, establishing different schedules for motorhomes and converted vans.