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Length of Motorhome Parking on Streets (and other Parking Regulations)

UK and European Motorhome/Campervan Overnight Stay Rules: Uncover the Legisalities of Parking Across the Continent

Street Parking Duration for Motorhomes, plus Other Relevant Parking Regulations
Street Parking Duration for Motorhomes, plus Other Relevant Parking Regulations

Length of Motorhome Parking on Streets (and other Parking Regulations)

Motorhome and Campervan Parking Laws in the UK and Europe: A Comprehensive Guide

In the UK and Europe, motorhome and campervan parking laws are becoming increasingly stringent, especially in popular areas. Here's what you need to know to ensure a hassle-free journey.

In the UK

The Felixstowe Van Parking Ban, enacted on July 7, 2025, prohibits overnight campervan and motorhome parking along Undercliff Road East seafront. This move was driven by long-term parking causing congestion, damage, and limiting space for day visitors. Elsewhere, local councils are imposing bylaws restricting overnight parking of motorhomes on public streets, especially in coastal resorts. Always verify local regulations as rules vary even between neighbouring councils.

When it comes to wild camping, the laws are clear: overnight stays require landowner permission regardless of vehicle type. In Scotland, wild camping is legal for tents but does not allow motorized vehicles. In England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, the same rule applies.

Across Europe

Europe offers various overnight options for motorhomes, including dedicated motorhome campsites. Using schemes like the ACSI discount card can reduce costs at many campgrounds. Staying overnight outside official sites is generally restricted by local laws and etiquette, so campers should check the rules per country or region.

When traveling by motorhome, special rules apply. For example, when using the Eurotunnel, there are limits on LPG gas carried onboard. Motorhomes often require separate tickets and may need to travel in specific vehicle carriages due to height and size.

Overnight Parking Options

For overnight travel, motorhome parking options include campsites, aires or approved overnight parking spots, and off-grid/ free parking. More and more places are wising up to providing overnight parking for motorhomes. Leisure centres, local rugby and football clubs, and many council-run buildings allow aire-style overnight parking if one asks in advance and usually pays a small fee.

Street Parking

It's legal to park in a lay-by overnight, as long as you're not breaking any restrictions, signs, or local laws. Parking your motorhome on the street outside your house is also legal, as long as it complies with any local laws or abides by parking restrictions, isn't causing an obstruction, and is legally allowed to be on the road.

Wild Camping

Wild camping or free overnight parking with a motorhome in the UK and many countries in Europe is not a legal right. The Scottish Outdoor Access Code does not extend to activities based on the use of a vehicle such as sleeping in cars, campers, vans, or caravans.

Security

Motorhome owners should be aware of motorhome security and may want to fit additional motorhome door locks.

New Restrictions

Updated motorhome and campervan parking laws in the UK and Europe include significant new restrictions on overnight parking, especially in popular areas like seaside towns, along with specific rules on street parking and wild camping. Always check local signage and council rules before parking or camping overnight.

[1] Felixstowe Van Parking Ban

[2] Motorhome and Campervan Parking Laws in the UK

[3] Motorhome and Campervan Parking Laws in Europe

[4] Overnight Parking in Europe

[5] Motorhome and Campervan Parking FAQs

  1. If you're planning for a hassle-free journey in the UK, it's crucial to verify local regulations regarding motorhome and campervan parking, as even neighboring councils might have varying rules, like the Felixstowe Van Parking Ban that prohibits overnight stays along Undercliff Road East seafront.
  2. When traveling through Europe, ensure to check the rules per country or region before staying overnight outside official motorhome campsites, as using schemes like the ACSI discount card can help reduce costs at many campgrounds.

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