Neighbor parked in front of your house? Your own spot on the street doesn’t exist, but you can defend yourself

There is a simple rule of thumb on a public road: first take

If your neighbour parks on the street or in the public car park in front of your house, he has the right to do so – as do you. There is no legal right to “own” the space in front of your house. Even if you’ve parked there for years, you don’t have the right of way. But if someone is systematically obstructing you with their car – for example, blocking your entrance, blocking your view when you exit, or not allowing your children to get out safely – this can already be a problem.

Such behaviour can be assessed as an offence under the Road Traffic Act (e.g. parking closer than 5 metres from a junction, obstructing access or exit). In extreme cases, it may even be an abuse of the law – for example, if someone parks “on purpose” in a driveway, etc.

Special rules for people with disabilities

The situation is different for people with severe physical disabilities. If you have a disabled person’s card, you have the right to apply to the municipality for a reserved parking space near your home. These spaces are marked with a road sign and are reserved for a specific vehicle. If a stranger parks there, they can be fined and towed away.

What can you do in practice?

Start by talking it out – often your neighbour may not even know they are causing you problems. If this doesn’t help and you think your neighbour is breaking traffic laws or your rights, contact the municipal police, who can deal with the offence on the spot or impose a fine.