Family with three children forced to leave forest after months living in caravan

Placing a mobile home or caravan in a private garden during the Easter holidays may be classified as illegal construction. The French Urban Planning Code requires a permit if a mobile home becomes stationary or is used for regular accommodation/rental, while a caravan can remain on the property without authorization for only up to three months per year. Violations risk a fine of up to €6,000 per square meter and an order to remove the structure.

French manufacturer Fleurette has introduced the compact motorhome 60 LG. The 5.99-meter-long model features a 140 hp Fiat Multijet 2.2 engine, a separate shower cabin, and three sleeping berths. The starting price for a new vehicle is around 75,000 euros.

Stephanie Sparks, 72, has been missing for nine weeks from the Camping Les Vigères site in Le Chalard, France. Her husband last saw her on January 29 before she vanished, leaving all her personal belongings behind. French authorities are conducting searches using drones, divers, and a helicopter.

The popularity of motorhomes is increasing, but rules and budget must be considered before traveling. The article examines differences between vehicle types, selection criteria, required permits and parking regulations. It also includes data on current movement restrictions within a 100 km radius from one's residence.

The May 2026 issue of Le Monde du Camping-Car magazine has been released. The special dossier features 30 practical fact sheets with local regulations and essential information for motorhome travel across European countries, from Germany to Bulgaria. The 132-page issue also includes regular sections, including vehicle tests and travel routes. The price in France is 5.95 euros.

In France, installing a motorhome in a private garden is prohibited, except when it is the primary residence and used for at least eight months per year. A caravan can be parked on the property for up to three months without permission, but longer stays require approval from the town hall.