People are starting to get smart to the fact that the building code here does not adequately address parking requirements.  Normal parking requirements are a minimum of one space per apartment unit plus a compliment of guest parking.  Office Building should provide a minimum of 4 spaces per 1,000 sf or 93 m2.  Doctor’s office require 6 spaces or more for the same space and shopping centers should provide for at least 6 parking spaces per 1000sf or 93 m2. In addition, patron’s will need to bear the cost and the landlord must be able to charge for parking, leaving the market to decide not the government.

Pending the Supreme Court´s decision on the law on free parking, the private sector is asking for changes to regulations in order to increase parking spaces depending on the type of construction.

It is still not known whether the law authorizing the free use of parking lots in shopping centers will be declared unconstitutional, but the business sector is seizing the moment to insist on the need to amend the legislation to change parking types and requirements in buildings, depending on the type of property in question.

“… In the view of the president of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Panama (CCIP), Carlos Fernandez, there is a need to establish the necessary parking requirements according to the services provided, either by businesses, hospitals or others. Fernandez reiterated its request to the Ministry of Housing and Land Management (Miviot) to adapt the rules and for parking requirements in new projects to be increased especially in high impact areas. ”

Regarding the controversial law on free parking, Fernandez told Panamaamerica.com.pa that “… We are waiting for the Court to rule on whether this law is unconstitutional as soon as possible so that things can be defined and put in order according to the country´s legislation. ”

Source: Panamaamerica.com.pa