Parking can be a stressful experience for drivers, especially when considering the many rules and fines related to where you can leave your car.
As more car owners hit the roads and streets become busier, the lack of space often results in drivers resorting to parking on the pavement – but is it legal?
Contrary to popular belief, outside of London, there is no law against parking on the pavement in England. Rule 244 of the Highway Code says of parking in the UK’s capital: “You must not park partially or wholly on the pavement in London, and should not do so elsewhere unless signs permit it.
“Parking on the pavement can obstruct and seriously inconvenience pedestrians, people in wheelchairs or with visual impairments and people with prams or pushchairs.”
Outside of London, drivers are permitted to partially park on the pavement but it must not cause an obstruction.
As a general rule of thumb – if you do park on the pavement – you should allow enough space for people to still pass your car, or risk being reported for illegal parking.
Highway Code rule 242 states: “You MUST NOT leave your vehicle or trailer in a dangerous position or where it causes any unnecessary obstruction of the road.”
Councils across the country have been trying to get areas to follow the lead of London on pavement parking, with many areas pushing for far stricter rules.
England, for example, has looked into how to crack down on pavement parking but has made no firm decisions on the actions it will take to address this.
In Wales, the Welsh Government has given the green light for local councils to crack down on pavement parking with them having the powers to fine drivers for doing so – though it is still not illegal.
Northern Ireland currently has no blanket ban on parking on pavements but tickets can be issued if you contravene the Highway Code, park on yellow lines or where signs prohibit parking.
Scotland, meanwhile, is the first country in the UK to ban pavement parking.
The Transport (Scotland) Bill, which banned pavement parking, double parking and parking at dropped kerbs, was passed in 2019 and came into full effect in December 2023.
Knowing where you can park can be confusing when there are delivery drivers using designated spots to offload or unload goods. These spots are known as loading bays and are typically outlined in either yellow or white dotted lines stating “loading only”.
When it comes to parking at loading bays, this is only allowed if there is a sign that states it can be used to do so. Signs will also outline at what time parking is allowed. If the loading bay has a sign stating “loading only”, you may run the risk of a hefty fine if you leave your car there.
The fine for parking on the pavement in Scotland is up to £100.
In conclusion, parking regulations can be complex and vary by location, so it’s important for drivers to be aware of the rules in their specific area to avoid fines and penalties. Always be considerate of pedestrians and others when parking in public spaces.
