Parkovanie

Parkovanie, or parking, is the act of stopping a vehicle and leaving it stationary in a designated area for a period, often to unload, visit, or use facilities. It is governed by local traffic laws and road rules.

Parking can take place on-street, in off-street lots, garages, or in dedicated facilities like park-and-ride lots. It may be paid or free, and may require a permit in certain areas. Special spaces exist for loading, disabled users, or emergency vehicles.

Regulations typically include posted time limits, paid meters or apps, resident permits, and prohibitions in no-parking zones or fire lanes. Violations can lead to fines, tickets, or vehicle towing. Enforcement aims to balance turnover, access, and safety.

Parking design considers space dimensions, circulation, lighting, signage, and accessibility. Parked vehicles should not obstruct driveways or crosswalks, and accessible parking spaces must meet standards. Electric vehicle charging stations are increasingly integrated into parking facilities.

Urban planning links parking supply with traffic and land use. Excessive parking can worsen urban sprawl and car dependency, while well-managed parking supports transit and non-motorized transport. Technology such as sensor networks, parking apps, and dynamic pricing is expanding the efficiency of parking systems.

Globally, parking practices vary widely due to climate, geography, and policy. Some cities impose caps, congestion charges, or limit parking spaces to reduce driving; others rely on market-based pricing and flexible regulations.