New DGT rules for campervans and motorhomes which include parking restrictions
The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has published a new instruction updating the rules for motorhomes and campervans, bringing clearer guidance on inspections, parking, and local regulations.
The updated directive, issued on Monday as Instruction PROT 2026/04, replaces the previous 2023 version and, for the first time, explicitly includes campervans (“camperised” vans) within its scope.
Clearer ITV Inspection Rules
One of the key updates concerns vehicle inspection schedules (ITV), which now clearly distinguish between:
- Motorhomes (Category M vehicles)
- Campervans (Category N vehicles)
Under the revised guidance:
- Motorhomes
- Over 4 years old: inspection every 2 years
- Over 10 years old: annual inspection
- Campervans
- Up to 10 years old: annual inspection
- Over 10 years old: every 6 months
These requirements align with Spain’s existing ITV regulations under Royal Decree 920/2017.
Parking Rules: Same as Other Vehicles — With Limits
The DGT confirms that, in general, motorhomes can stop and park under the same conditions as any other vehicle.
However, they must comply with local council regulations, particularly in urban areas. Municipal authorities can:
- Limit parking duration
- Restrict or prohibit camping outside of authorised areas
This interpretation is based on a 2018 Supreme Court ruling, which clarified that councils have the legal authority to regulate parking and prevent prolonged stays to protect traffic flow, pedestrian use, and fair access to parking spaces.
New Signage and Designated Areas
The instruction also reflects growing regional legislation across Spain governing designated motorhome areas as a form of tourist accommodation, including recent developments in regions such as Madrid, Extremadura and Navarra.
These dedicated areas must:
- Provide essential services for motorhomes
- Be clearly signposted for ease of use
A new traffic sign introduced in 2025 — S-128 — marks official waste disposal points for caravans and motorhomes, helping users identify where they can safely empty wastewater.
Rising Popularity of Motorhomes
The DGT notes that motorhome use in Spain has surged in recent years. Since 2015, the number of registered motorhomes has nearly tripled — rising from just over 48,000 to almost 137,000 today.
The updated instruction aims to reflect this rapid growth, while ensuring clearer rules for owners, better coordination between national and local regulations, and improved infrastructure for travellers across Spain.
Share:
