Zagreb drivers block kindergarten access, but fines are impossible due to bizarre legal loophole

Drivers are repeatedly parking in front of Zagreb kindergartens, despite regulations limiting parking to 15 minutes during specific hours. The city assembly president, Matej Mišić, highlighted the issue, noting that while the city decision defines parking rules, traffic wardens lack the legal basis to enforce them.

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The sign informing that parking in front of the kindergarten is allowed only for 15 minutes, and only during specific hours, is not a prohibition sign but an informational one, therefore its violation is not an offense and cannot be punished.

Mišić sought clarification from the mayor, who deemed the practice unacceptable and called for sanctions. However, subsequent information revealed that current laws do not adequately cover these violations. The Ministry of Interior confirmed that signs indicating parking restrictions are informational, not prohibitive, meaning violations cannot be fined.

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The city decision specifically regulates the use of parking spaces near kindergartens. These spaces are intended for use during the facility's working hours, typically from 7:00 to 9:00 and from 15:00 to 17:00, with a maximum duration of 15 minutes.

The city is now exploring solutions, considering changes within communal economy regulations to address the problem. This situation leaves parents and children facing continued disruption due to inconsiderate parking, with authorities struggling to find an effective legal remedy.

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Such conduct is an absolute violation of regulations, and the practice of traffic wardens not sanctioning it is unacceptable.