In some built-up areas, you can only park in designated `blue zones`. To use these you must first buy a parking disc from a filling station, garage or police station.

You should also park in the direction of traffic, so facing the direction of travel on the right hand side of the road.

Parking regulations

Any stationary vehicle must have its engine switched off, unless absolutely necessary. Any stationary vehicle (for the time necessary to load or unload persons or goods) or parked must be left on the right-hand side of the road, except in the case of a one way street when it can be parked on either side. Paid parking

Paid parking is regulated by parking meters or automatic parking machines; methods of payment and parking conditions are specified on the machines in question. Where these exist inside blue zones, parking discs must not be used, except when the parking meter or ticket machine is out of action.

Enforcement of parking regulations

Wheel clamps are sometimes used to immobilize vehicles which are not legally insured. They are not used to penalize drivers who have illegally parked their vehicles.

Disabled parking access

Foreign disabled permits are recognized in Belgium. Special parking places are reserved for the disabled. These are indicated by sign `E23`, with the addition of the international symbol. Badge holders may also park without time limit where parking time is otherwise restricted by road signs, in blue zones and by parking meters.

Overnight Stops

If parking overnight, it`s crucial to choose a safe, well-traveled, and well-lit spot for your car. Ask your hotelier about parking options (and rules governing overnight parking); the hotel may offer a permit or free spot, whether in their own lot o through an agreement with a neighbor.