The city of Groningen has decided to stop issuing new parking permits for large campers from the beginning of next year. The move aims to reduce the nuisance and congestion caused by these vehicles, which are longer than six meters and/or higher than 2.40 meters, on the city’s streets and P+R locations. The owners of such campers will have to park them in a storage facility instead.
The city has also prohibited parking large vehicles in P+R areas, where they often occupy multiple spaces and block the access for other users. According to the city council, the new regulations are based on the complaints from residents and businesses about the negative impact of large campers on the city’s livability and accessibility.
Only small campers will be eligible for parking permits, the city announced. Those who already have a valid parking permit for their large camper can use it until the end of this year, but they will not be able to renew it for the next year.
For those who are unable to find a storage facility for their camper, the city will allow them to park it temporarily at P+R Kardinge, Haren, or Reitdiep until September 1, 2024. During this period, the city will not enforce the ban on parking large vehicles at P+R locations.
The new rules will not affect tourists who visit Groningen with their campers. The recreational camper spots at P+R Kardinge will remain available for them.
Camper regulations in Drenthe and Friesland
The province of Drenthe has also announced plans to ban large campers from city streets and P+R parking lots. The ban will go into effect on January 1, 2024.
Just as in Groningen, the ban will apply to campers that are longer than six meters and/or higher than 2.4 meters. Smaller camper vans will still be allowed to park in the province.
Owners of large campers will be required to park their vehicles at designated camper parking areas. The province says it is working to increase the number of camper parking areas to accommodate the increased demand.
The ban does not affect tourists. Recreational camper spots will remain available at designated campgrounds.
Friesland is considering a ban on large campers from city streets and P+R parking lots as well. The ban could go into effect in 2025.
The provincial government is still developing the ordinance and has not yet announced specific details.
Changing landscape for campers in the north
The exact rules and regulations may vary by municipality, so it is advisable to check with the local authorities before parking or staying overnight with a camper. Some municipalities may have specific areas for campers, such as campsites, recreational parks, or marinas. These areas may charge a fee or require a reservation. Some municipalities may also allow campers to park or stay overnight on private property, such as farms or gardens, with the permission of the owner.
For more information about camper regulations in the three northern provinces, you can visit the site of the Dutch Camper Club, which provides useful tips and advice for camper users in the Netherlands and abroad.
