The blue zone is a regulated parking system that is implemented in various cities, including Madrid, with the aim of controlling parking in the areas of greatest demand, promoting vehicle rotation and encouraging the use of public transport.
In Madrid, the blue zone is known as SER (Regulated Parking Service) and is managed by the Municipal Transport Company (EMT). Next, I will explain how it works, the times in which it applies, the prices, the applicable legislation and some most visited areas with a blue zone.
Operation of the blue zone in Madrid: The SER is applied in certain streets and squares of the city, indicated with vertical signage and road markings on the ground. To park in these areas, it is necessary to pay a ticket at the parking meters located on public roads, or use payment through mobile applications, such as “EMT MADRID” or “Telpark”.
Blue zone hours: The operating hours of the blue zone in Madrid vary depending on the zone and are divided into two sections: general hours and special hours. General hours are Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The special hours, in which lower rates apply, are Monday to Friday, from 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m., and on Saturdays from 3:00 p.m. to Sunday at 9:00 p.m.
Blue zone prices: Parking prices in the blue zone also vary depending on location and time. In general, rates are divided into different time slots and zones. In the most central areas of Madrid, the maximum hourly rate can be 2.20 euros during general hours, while during special hours it can be reduced to 0.60 euros per hour.
Applicable legislation: Parking in the blue zone is governed by different rules and regulations, both at the municipal and state level. In Madrid, the Sustainable Mobility Ordinance regulates the SER and establishes the rules and sanctions associated with non-compliance with these rules. It is important to respect traffic signs and established parking time limits.
Most visited areas with a blue zone in Madrid: Some of the most visited areas of Madrid where the blue zone is located are the historic center of the city, the Salamanca neighborhood, Príncipe Pío, Atocha, Gran Vía, the Nuevos Ministerios area, among others. These areas are usually very busy and in demand, so the regulated parking system is present to guarantee the mobility and rotation of vehicles.
Free blue zone day: In Madrid, parking in the blue zone is free on Sundays and national holidays.
Frequently asked questions about the blue zone in Madrid:
How can I pay for parking in the blue zone? A: You can pay for parking in the blue zone through parking meters located on public roads or through mobile applications.
What are the operating hours of the blue zone in Madrid? A: The hours are Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., during general hours. During special hours, Monday to Friday from 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m., and Saturdays from 3:00 p.m. to Sunday at 9:00 p.m.
How much does parking cost in the blue zone in Madrid? A: Prices vary depending on location and time, with maximum rates of 2.20 euros per hour during general hours and 0.60 euros per hour during special hours.
Where can I find regulated parking areas in Madrid? A: Regulated parking areas are marked with vertical signs and road markings on the ground. They can be found in different areas of the city, such as the historic center, the Salamanca neighborhood, Príncipe Pío, Atocha, Gran Vía, among others.
What are the penalties for parking incorrectly in the blue zone? A: The penalties for violating parking rules in the blue zone may vary depending on the violation, but in general they can range between 90 and 200 euros.