However, according to Steve Hatto, in charge of municipal agents at the General Federation of Municipal Workers (FGFC), this practice is not permitted once the maximum parking duration has been exceeded.
Hatto clarified to our colleagues from RTL.lu that upon surpassing the maximum allowed parking time, the vehicle must be relocated from the parking spot. However, the Highway Code does not specify a minimum distance for moving the vehicle or prohibit returning to the same spot. This means a brief departure and subsequent return, such as making a U-turn, technically fulfil the requirement. This regulation aims to ensure that another driver, at least in theory, had the opportunity to take the parking space in the interim.
Previously, the Highway Code stipulated a requirement to move the vehicle 100 metres, but this provision has since been removed.
Regarding parking enforcement, Steve Hatto dispels the myth that municipal agents mark cars’ tyres or spots on the ground. Nowadays, every municipal agent has a smartphone and can photograph how vehicles are parked. Hatto notes that instances of drivers falsely claiming to have moved their cars and returning them to the same spot are rare. He stresses that municipal agents are diligent in their duties.
In terms of penalties, exceeding the maximum parking duration incurs a fine of €24, similar to parking without a ticket or valid disk. If the overstay is less than 30 minutes beyond the limit, the fine is reduced to €12. Hatto explains that, in such cases, agents typically continue patrolling the area, and usually, more than half an hour elapses by the time they return. Exceptions are made on streets where drivers consistently move their vehicles within the half-hour period beyond the maximum duration.
Hatto also highlights that agents often engage in conversations with drivers, offering suggestions for alternative parking locations. Additionally, it is worth noting that as long as the maximum parking duration is not exceeded, drivers can simply take another ticket without needing to relocate their vehicle.
