Driveway Permits Yield €16.7m for Barcelona Council

An audit released by Barcelona’s municipal comptroller on Saturday 14 November 2026 shows the city council generated €16.7 million in revenue from driveway permits, known locally as vados, in 2025, while spending only €446,517 to administer the scheme. This represents a profit margin of 3,750.3%, according to the findings published by Metrópoli Abierta, based on the municipal audit. The bulk of the cost, 84%, or €375,840, was attributed to personnel expenses.

How Driveway Permits Work

A vado allows property owners to legally break the pavement for vehicle access to private garages or parking spaces. The fee is calculated by multiplying a base rate of €0.49 by the affected area in square metres, with the surface area counted double if it exceeds five linear metres. Additional factors include the number of days the permit is valid, the street category, and the purpose of the vado. Applicants must also deposit a financial guarantee to cover the restoration of the pavement to its original condition. The permit holder is responsible for constructing the vado, installing correct signage, and maintaining it in good condition. More information on fees and applications is available via the Institut Municipal d'Hisenda and the city’s online portal.

Commercial Sidewalk Use Also Highly Profitable

The audit also highlights profits from commercial use of public space. In 2025, permits for sidewalk terraces, kiosks, and temporary sales points brought in €8.7 million, against a municipal cost of €2 million. This results in a positive balance of €6.6 million and a profit margin of 416.9%. These permits cover restaurant terraces, counters installed by small businesses, and seasonal market stalls.

The vados are a 'gold mine' for Barcelona.

Sources: Metrópoli, Ajuntament de Barcelona, metropoliabierta.cat.