Old parking discs no longer allowed

A parking disc clearly visible behind the windshield is not always sufficient to avoid a fine. Some models, however used in good faith by drivers, do not meet current European standards. Here are the errors to know to avoid an unpleasant surprise.

Parking disc: why the old models are no longer authorized

For several decades, French drivers have used discs with two distinct indications: the arrival time and the authorized departure time. This operation was based on relatively standardized parking durations, generally between one hour and one hour and a half. However, this organization gradually showed its limits.

Municipalities wanted more flexibility

Municipalities wanted to be able to more easily adapt parking durations to the needs of their communes, especially in city centers and near shops. This is why a new model of disc was introduced by a decree of December 6, 2007, with a transition period allowing the old equipment to be kept until December 31, 2011.

New model introduced in 2012

Since January 1, 2012, only the new regulatory format can be used in blue zones. Unlike its predecessor, it has only one window intended to indicate the vehicle's arrival time. The maximum parking duration is therefore no longer determined by the disc itself, but by local regulations.

Fine for non-compliant discs

To avoid any unpleasant surprise, drivers must therefore use a disc that meets the characteristics set by French regulations. The regulatory model includes notably a single window indicating the arrival time, an arrow serving as a reference, and a graduation in hours, half-hours, and ten-minute intervals.

Penalties and local rules

It also includes the official parking symbol on its upper part. The driver must set the arrival time, then place the disc at the front of the vehicle, behind the windshield, in such a way that it can be easily consulted by the agents responsible for inspection. Another important point: the authorized duration varies from one commune to another, even from one street to another.

Penalty increased to 35 euros

It is therefore essential to check the signs present nearby, which generally specify the applicable hours and the maximum parking duration. And be careful, because the amount of the penalty has evolved. Whereas a misuse of the disc was previously punished by a flat rate fine of 17 euros, Article R417-3 of the Road Code now provides for a second-class offense, i.e. 35 euros.

Illegal practices to avoid

Finally, some practices intended to artificially extend the parking duration are also to be avoided. It is forbidden to return simply to change the time indicated on the disc without actually moving the vehicle. Once the maximum duration is reached, the driver must free the space in accordance with local rules.

Compliance avoids fines

The same principle applies to devices that automatically advance the displayed time while the car remains parked. These systems do not allow circumventing the restrictions imposed in blue zones. Before leaving the car on a regulated spot, it is better to take a few seconds to check the equipment. A compliant parking disc, properly set and clearly visible can avoid a 35 euro fine, provided the authorized duration is also respected.