Where parking is prohibited
Where parking is prohibited covers the locations in Norwegian traffic law where stopping longer than necessary to set av or pick up is illegal. Knowing these rules protects traffic safety, prevents fines and keeps routes clear for all road users.
Key no-parking areas
The table lists typical locations with a ban on parking under the Norwegian Traffic Rules (§ 17-1). The right-hand column shows the relevant letter in the regulation.
| Location | Why it is prohibited | Legal reference |
|---|---|---|
| Junctions and within 5 m of the intersection | Maintain sight lines and turning space | Traffic Rules § 17-1 a |
| Bends and hill crests with poor visibility | Prevent surprises for oncoming traffic | Traffic Rules § 17-1 b |
| Pedestrian crossings and 5 m before them | Give pedestrians free passage | Traffic Rules § 17-1 c |
| Cycle lanes | Reserved for cyclists | Traffic Rules § 17-1 g |
| Pavements and shared-use paths | Avoid blocking vulnerable road users | Traffic Rules § 17-1 h |
| Bus or taxi lanes without specific signage | Keep lanes available for public transport | Traffic Rules § 17-1 g |
| Tunnels, bridges and underpasses | Ensure evacuation and emergency access | Traffic Rules § 17-1 f |
| Railway level crossings | High risk when trains pass | Traffic Rules § 17-1 j |
| Within 10 m before bus or tram stops | Provide boarding space | Traffic Rules § 17-1 k |
| In front of driveways or gates | Do not block access to property | Traffic Rules § 17-1 l |
Read Traffic rules on parking for a broader overview. Supplementary signage may tighten the restriction, for instance with time limits that require a disc. See Parking disc for details.
Risk of illegal parking
- Reduced sight for drivers and pedestrians, especially near crossings.
- Blocked access for emergency services, buses and trams.
- Danger to vulnerable road users who must step into the carriageway.
- Fines or towing, and in severe cases liability for damages.
Practical tips
- Check signage and parking zones before leaving the car.
- Keep distance to junctions, crossings and stops even if no sign is present.
- Use apps or meters to log payment where parking is allowed.
- Choose marked spaces such as parking garages or clearly signed bays.
- Watch for temporary signs during events or road works.
- Keep gateways and emergency routes clear – blocking them breaches § 17-1 l or n.
- Verify tunnel and garage exits remain accessible when you park indoors.
Quick recap
- Never park where Traffic Rules § 17-1 prohibits stopping and parking.
- Respect supplementary signs that require a parking disc, limit time or specify exceptions.
- Assess whether the car could hinder emergency vehicles or vulnerable users even without signage.
For the difference between stopping and parking, see Traffic rules on stopping .