One essential step is enabling licensed private parking operators to securely access national vehicle registration databases. With this access, operators can issue reminders, payment requests, or fines directly to vehicle owners for both paid and unpaid parking — without the need for gates, hence also applicable to smaller areas where regulated parking is cost prohibitive today.
This approach works in both private settings (such as residential complexes or company car parks) and public parking areas operated by private providers.
Seamless Across Borders
True regulated open parking requires more than national solutions.
To be fully effective, secure access to vehicle data should extend across EU borders, so foreign-registered vehicles can also be identified and billed fairly.
Right now, EU cross-border enforcement focuses mainly on serious traffic offences like speeding or illegal parking in disabled bays. Non-payment or lack of a permit is not enforceable across borders.
Closing this gap — first nationally, then across the EU — is key to ensuring improved mobility in cities in a fair, compliant, and seamless manner.
Why Open Parking Benefits Everyone
Reduced infrastructure costs. Without the need for a physical barrier (which lowers installation and maintenance costs), it will be possible to introduce regulated parking in places where traditional gated systems are not viable — such as supermarket lots, certain residential areas or other relatively small parking areas.
Better experience for drivers. A smooth, uninterrupted entry and exit means less hassle and no queues at exit gates. Free-flow ANPR systems automate payments and reduce the risk of unexpected fines. This is especially valuable for high-traffic locations — such as supermarkets, sports stadiums, and concert venues — where many visitors arrive or leave in short periods of time.
New revenue opportunities. Expanding regulated parking into underserved areas and improving enforcement helps operators make better use of available space and increase compliance. With ANPR technology, there’s no need for physical patrols or specialised vehicles to check compliance — reducing operating costs significantly. This makes it possible to manage smaller or lower-demand areas that would otherwise be too expensive to operate, unlocking revenue streams that were previously out of reach.
Improved traffic flow. Without gates slowing things down, vehicles move more freely, easing congestion and improving the overall urban traffic network.
Environmental gains. Less idling means lower emissions — and cleaner air for everyone, even more-so in closed or covered structures.
Smart Tariffs: Transparent Pricing and Better Utilisation
Removing barriers is only part of the solution — how parking is priced matters too. With regulated access to non-personal vehicle data, cities and operators can introduce smart tariffs that adapt to vehicle type, residency status, visitor profile, and time of day.
This flexibility means smaller or previously underused sites can become profitable — from office lots available overnight, to hotel spaces sold when not in use by guests. Price differentiation also encourages efficient space use and supports more sustainable travel choices.
The advantages of smart tariffs include:
Fair, data-driven pricing — costs reflect a vehicle’s impact on space and the environment.
Encouraging greener choices — EVs and smaller cars pay less, rewarding sustainable transport.
Managing demand — higher costs for larger, less efficient vehicles can reduce their use in busy areas.
Making better use of space — incentivising smaller, cleaner vehicles improves efficiency and supports city climate goals.
Proven in Practice
Barrier-free parking and smart tariffs are already in place in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Germany — delivering smoother journeys, fairer pricing, and cleaner air.
The framework is there. The technology exists. What’s needed now is regulatory alignment to make it possible across Europe.