Urbiotica: Donostia Advances Toward Smart Parking With a Phased, Data-Driven Approach

The city of Donostia / San Sebastián is moving forward with a comprehensive smart parking strategy, built on a step-by-step deployment model focused on measurable results. Led by the City Council and implemented together with EYSA as the main technology partner, this initiative is part of the city’s Low Emission Zone (LEZ) rollout, aiming to improve urban mobility and optimize public space usage.

Within this project, Urbiotica provides the core technology for parking detection, guidance, and enforcement. The solution combines IoT sensors, user applications, and dynamic signage to enable real-time, data-driven management of different types of regulated parking spaces across the city.

Starting with a pilot to validate the approach

The project began with a pilot deployment in a cul-de-sac near the iconic Chillida sculpture, covering 126 parking spaces.

A parking guidance system with real-time signage was implemented to inform drivers about space availability before entering the area. This helped reduce unnecessary traffic and improve circulation in a location with limited maneuverability.

Just as importantly, this phase validated the reliability of the sensor-based detection system in real-world conditions, laying the groundwork for future expansion.

Digitizing accessible parking with open data

In the second phase, the focus shifted to accessible parking (PRM spaces), with sensors deployed across 353 designated spots.

The goal was to generate accurate occupancy data and usage insights. This information is made available through a public data portal, supporting transparency and enabling both citizens and city managers to better understand how these spaces are being used.

Smart management of loading zones within the LEZ

The project is currently expanding to include more than 230 loading and unloading zones as part of the LEZ framework led by EYSA.

The solution includes:

• Per-space occupancy sensors
• A mobile app for authorized users to declare parking sessions
• Automated alerts for misuse, integrated with municipal enforcement systems

This setup allows real-time monitoring, improves compliance, and increases turnover in key areas that support urban logistics and economic activity.

Data-driven planning for taxi stands

As part of this same phase, 134 taxi stands are being monitored to better understand real usage patterns.

These insights will help the city optimize the location and capacity of taxi areas, enabling more accurate, data-driven urban planning.

Centralized management through a unified platform

All deployed systems are integrated into EYSA’s ParkExplorer platform, which acts as the central hub for managing urban parking.

From a single interface, city operators can monitor occupancy in real time, manage alerts, and analyze key performance indicators—enabling faster, more informed decision-making.

A scalable model for smart cities

Donostia’s project demonstrates how a phased, data-driven approach can evolve from a pilot into a city-wide smart parking system.

Beyond the technology itself, the project highlights the importance of collaboration between cities, partners, and technology providers to improve both user experience and operational efficiency.

Looking to implement a similar project?

If you’re exploring how to digitize parking management in your city, a phased approach like this can help reduce risk while delivering measurable results from the early stages.

Contact us at info(at)urbiotica.com to discuss your project with our experts and explore the best approach for your city.

About Urbiotica

Urbiotica is a technology company specialized in smart parking and mobility solutions for cities and complex urban environments. With a strong focus on IoT, artificial intelligence, and data analytics, Urbiotica helps public authorities and parking operators improve traffic flow, optimize parking operations, and enhance the overall user experience. Its solutions are deployed in cities and facilities worldwide, supporting data-driven decision-making for more efficient, sustainable, and accessible urban mobility.

Learn more about Urbiotica and its smart parking solutions at www.urbiotica.com