Rio de Janeiro Sanctions 'Área Azul Digital' for App-Based Street Parking

Overview

• Mayor Eduardo Paes signed a law creating a digital rotating parking system with payments via apps, Pix and cards.
• The measure targets the illegal activity of flanelinhas and allows accredited attendants to be formally hired.
• Key provisions on payment rules, enforcement and agreements were vetoed by the mayor, and the City Council can revisit those vetoes.
• Tariffs may vary by location and demand, with a gradual rollout possible under direct operation or through a concession or public‑private partnership.
• The city announced studies to define the project model, drawing on similar systems in Niterói, Cabo Frio, Arraial do Cabo and São Paulo that use digital enforcement and report reduced irregular parking.