Doing that in Dublin—or pretty much anywhere in Ireland—would likely lead to a series of legal and practical issues. Here's what would realistically happen:
1. No Insurance = Illegal
In Ireland, it's illegal to own a car that's taxed and registered for the road without insurance, even if you're not driving it. Just owning it and keeping it in a public space without insurance can get you fined or have the car impounded.
An uninsured vehicle can be reported and towed by authorities, especially if it's seen sitting for an extended period.
2. Public Parking Rules
While you might find free on-street parking in some suburbs or areas around Dublin, most city-center areas have regulated parking with time limits.
If you leave a car parked too long in one spot, even if it's legally parked, it can raise red flags with locals or authorities (like Dublin City Council or Gardaí).
3. Sleeping in the Car
Technically, it's not illegal to sleep in your car, but it can be considered loitering or suspicious behavior depending on where you are.
If you're in residential or commercial areas, people may report it, and Gardaí could ask you to move or fine you under public order offenses.
Safety and hygiene become issues as well—no bathroom, limited security, etc.
4. Vehicle Tax & NCT
To legally have the car on the road, it would need to be taxed, insured, and have a valid NCT (roadworthiness test). If it doesn't meet these, it's technically not road-legal, and can be clamped or towed.
Summary:
No insurance? Illegal.
Sleeping in a car? Not technically illegal, but likely to get you moved along.
Long-term street parking? Risky, especially without proper paperwork.
If you're thinking of doing this as a housing workaround, there may be safer or more stable options depending on your situation. Want help looking into those?
