The Rules of the Road provide excellent guidance about driving within the law in all circumstances. Keep a copy handy and refer to it regularly. The regulations relating to parking are set out clearly in the Rules of the Road, and this page provides some additional information. 

• you may park because other cars are parked 

• you may park because someone says you may 

• parking is free or unrestricted on bank holidays, Sundays, in the evening or overnight 

• you may walk off in search of change for a parking meter 

• it is sufficient to buy a ticket in a pay-and-display car park. It must be displayed as indicated on the ticket. 

If you get a parking ticket do not ignore it.

Appeal if you think the ticket is unfair.

Take notes and photographs at the scene and write to the address on the back of the ticket. 
However, there are situations where limited exceptions apply:

• you may pick up and drop off passengers in restricted parking areas (but not clearways or loading areas) 

• loading and unloading may be permitted unless the road is a clearway, or kerb markings or notices indicate restrictions

There is a possibility that your car may be clamped by the local authority for parking offences. This system has been introduced in Dublin City. The best advice is not to park illegally and to take care that metered time does not expire while you are away from the car.
If your car is clamped, then telephone the Parking Shop on 01 6022500 to arrange release. The fee is €80.00, and the clamp should be released within the hour.

Some urban areas operate a tow-away system whereby vehicles that cause an obstruction can be removed to a car pound and a significant fee is charged for their release.
On-the-spot parking fines are issued by means of tickets in all parts of the country.