Some Chamonix Outdoor Car Parks Now Charged (...but not to locals)
Barriers have been installed in three central outdoor car parks
Since December 15th 2015, parking in Fond des Gires (by the athletic track), Corzolet (in front of the ENSA) and Courmayeur (by the bowling alley) is no longer free. However, if you work or live in the Chamonix Valley you can apply for an exemption.
Those who reside or work locally are offered 11 hours for free for every 24 hours. You just need to head to the Chamonix Parc Auto office at the Entreves Parking (275 promenade Marie Paradis) with your Viacham card and your car's "carte grise". They will give you a new magnetic card that you can keep in your vehicle and that allows you to park for free during 11 hours.
The Viacham card can be obtained at one of the four mairies in the valley (Chamonix, Les Houches, Servoz & Vallorcine). If you're a seasonal worker or you don't live in the valley but work here, don't worry! You just need to bring your work contract. Take a look at the leaflet (in French) for more information on how to apply.
The new system is being enforced by local police patrolling the town's streets and yesterday you could already see a fair amount of cars with parking tickets on their windshield. However, there are still some free parking spaces in town; check out our Guide to Car Parking in the Mont Blanc Valley.
