# How Many Parking Spaces Are Required for My Construction Project in Nice?

> How many parking spaces does the Nice PLU require for your project? Rules by zone (UA, UB, UC) and home size — avoid a refused building permit.

- URL : https://cassini-expertise.fr/en/parking-spaces-required-nice-construction/
- Langue : en-US
- Mis à jour : 2026-11-06
- Site : Cassini Expertise (https://cassini-expertise.fr/)

STATIONNEMENT – [NICE](https://cassini-expertise.fr/nice-secheresse-argile-fissures-donnees-officielles/) PLU

You have bought a plot of land in Nice and hold a permit for a residential building. The Nice PLU (local urban plan) sets a number of parking spaces that varies with the zone and the size of the homes. This article explains the exact rules so you can avoid a refused permit.

## The Nice local plan (PLU) rules: zones and exact calculations

![parking spaces required nice construction - Cassini Expertise](https://cassini-expertise.fr/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/avant-achat-maison.webp)

*Cassini Expertise – independent building expertise*

Article 12 of the Nice PLU (local urban plan) governs the number of parking spaces for new buildings. The rule varies by zone (UA, UB, UC…) and by home size. In zone UA (city centre), a home under 60 m² requires 1 space, one of 60 to 100 m² requires 1.5 spaces, and one over 100 m² requires 2 spaces. Note that these spaces must be accessible and comply with standard NF P 91-120 (minimum 5 m × 2.5 m). The PLU also requires visitor spaces (1 per 5 homes). Dimensional non-compliance is common and leads to permit refusals.

Parking Space Calculation – Nice PLU (zone UA)

## Calculation example: 5 homes in zone UA

Take this example: 5 homes in Nice, zone UA, of 55 m², 70 m², 85 m², 95 m² and 110 m². Here is the calculation:

- Unit 1 (< 60 m²): 1 space
- Unit 2 (60-100 m²): 1.5 spaces
- Unit 3 (60-100 m²): 1.5 spaces
- Unit 4 (60-100 m²): 1.5 spaces
- Unit 5 (> 100 m²): 2 spaces
- Subtotal: 7.5 spaces → rounded up to 8 (always to the next whole number)
- Visitor spaces: 1 per 5 units → 1 space
- **Total: 9 spaces**

If your project only provides 8 spaces, you are short. The permit may be denied. Also check dimensions: each space must be 5 m x 2.5 m (standard NF P 91-120). If you reduce the width to 2.30 m, it is non-compliant.

## What You Can Do Concretely

**1. Check your PLU.** Download the regulations from the city of Nice website. Article 12 gives the exact rules for your zone.

**2. Calculate the number of spaces.** Use the method above. If in doubt, consult a surveyor or an urban planning consultancy.

**3. If you are short:** You can request a derogation from the mayor, but it is rarely granted. Otherwise, modify your project: reduce unit sizes or add underground spaces.

**4. In case of permit refusal:** You can file an administrative appeal with the mayor within 2 months, then a legal appeal before the administrative court.

**5. Call an expert.** A surveyor or architect with expertise in urban planning can help you build a solid case.

## Real case: Saint-Roch, Nice

A property owner in Nice, Saint-Roch district, had a project of 6 units (areas from 50 to 90 m²). He had planned 6 spaces, thinking 1 per unit was enough. But the PLU in zone UB required 1 space per unit < 60 m² and 1.5 for the others. Calculation: 2 units at 1 space + 4 units at 1.5 spaces = 2 + 6 = 8 spaces. + 1 visitor space = 9 spaces. He was short by 3 spaces. Result: the permit was denied. He had to revise his project, add a basement, and pay additional architect fees. Extra cost: €15,000. The lesson: check the PLU before submitting the permit.

## Frequently asked questions

### How many parking spaces are required for a new building in Nice?

In Nice, the number of required parking spaces depends on the type of building and its location. For residential buildings, typically one space per apartment is required, but this can vary based on the size of the units. Commercial buildings often need one space per 50-100 square metres of floor area. Check the local PLU (Plan Local d'Urbanisme) for exact rules.

### What is the minimum parking requirement for a house in Nice?

For a single-family house in Nice, the minimum is usually one parking space per dwelling, but if the house is large (over 150 m²), you may need two. In the city centre or areas with good public transport, the requirement can be reduced. Always verify with the urbanism department.

### Are there exemptions from parking requirements for buildings in Nice?

Yes, exemptions may apply for projects in the hyper-centre, for social housing, or when the site is too small. Also, if you provide bicycle parking or are near a tram line, the number of car spaces can be reduced. You must apply for a derogation from the mairie.

**See also:** [Mandatory Parking Space Requirements: PLU Calculation in Nice](https://cassini-expertise.fr/en/mandatory-parking-spaces-plu-nice/) · [Non-Compliant Parking Space in a VEFA Sale in Nice](https://cassini-expertise.fr/en/nice-vefa-parking-space-non-compliant/) · [PLU and Building Regulations: What You Can Build in the 06, 83 and 13](https://cassini-expertise.fr/en/plu-building-regulations-nice-var/)

---
Source : https://cassini-expertise.fr/en/parking-spaces-required-nice-construction/
