Can a mayor allow vehicles to be parked on the sidewalks of his commune?

A pedestrian association had asked the mayor to remove the markings on the ground allowing vehicles to be parked on sidewalks. Without a response from the Commission, it brought the matter before the administrative courts.

The Conseil d'Etat recalls first of all that the mayor cannot take measures contrary to the highway code. However, this code does not prevent authorization to park on part of the sidewalks in view of particular difficulties in motor vehicle traffic. On the other hand, parking must allow sufficient passage for pedestrians, especially those with reduced mobility. Second, pedestrians must be able to access homes and businesses along the waterfront. Finally, parking may only be permitted on sidewalk sites that are properly marked.

In this case, due to the configuration of the roads involved, the mayor was legally able to authorize the disputed parking lot. The Conseil d’État dismisses the appeal brought by the association.