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Parking rules can be confusing, even for experienced drivers. However, they are essential to understand—not only for demonstrating proper parking skills during your driving test but also because you’ll be responsible for where you park your vehicle for the rest of your life. Dramatic? Perhaps, but stopping in the wrong place can create dangerous conditions for other road users. To deter this, councils and the police issue fines in the form of Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) or Fixed Penalty Notices (FPNs).

To truly understand where you can and cannot park, you’ll need to familiarise yourself with the Highway Code. While not a legal document, it offers advice and best practices for drivers. Any rules that include the terms “MUST” or “MUST NOT” are legally enforceable under UK law.

However, legality isn’t the only consideration when deciding where to park. Let’s take a closer look at the UK’s on-street parking rules.

General Parking Rules

As a starting point, Rule 239 of the Highway Code outlines several fundamental parking rules. These are mostly common sense—like ensuring the handbrake is applied before leaving the vehicle. They also include legal requirements such as:

• Switching off your engine, headlights, and fog lights to reduce emissions and avoid dazzling other drivers.
• Taking care not to endanger or obstruct others when opening your car door, ideally using the Dutch Reach technique.

The Highway Code also advises drivers to:

• Park close to the kerb (if you struggle with this, check out Leo Driving School's guide to parallel parking).
• Give vehicles displaying a Blue Badge plenty of space.
• Park in the same direction as the traffic flow on your side of the road.

While parking against the traffic flow isn’t illegal, and you may need to do so during the practical driving test, it’s safer and more practical to follow the traffic direction when parking.

On-Street Parking Rules

In a perfect world, there would be enough designated parking spaces for all vehicles. These areas, typically marked with broken white lines or allocated bays, often require payment via parking meters or apps. Always display your ticket clearly and avoid overstaying your allotted time.

On residential streets, parking rules are often more stringent. Watch for signs (often small and rectangular) or check local council websites for information on Controlled Parking Zones (CPZs) or Restricted Parking Zones (RPZs). These zones may have rules limiting parking times or requiring permits.

Specific Parking Scenarios

Permit Holder-Only Areas

Some streets reserve parking for residents or temporary visitor permits. These restrictions might be in effect 24/7 or apply during specific hours. Always check signs to confirm whether parking is allowed.
Bottom Line: Only park in permit-only areas if you have a valid permit.

Dropped Kerbs

Dropped kerbs improve access for pedestrians (e.g., wheelchair users or pram pushers) and vehicles (e.g., driveways). According to Rule 243 of the Highway Code:

“DO NOT stop or park...where the kerb has been lowered to help wheelchair users and powered mobility vehicles.”

Parking on a dropped kerb without permission could result in a PCN.
Bottom Line: Don’t park on a dropped kerb unless explicitly permitted.

Opposite a Dropped Kerb

There’s no law against parking opposite a dropped kerb, but ensure you’re not obstructing driveway access.
Bottom Line: Parking opposite a dropped kerb is fine if it’s safe and considerate.

In Front of a Driveway

Blocking someone’s driveway is inconsiderate and often illegal, especially if the driveway has a dropped kerb. Police may intervene under antisocial behaviour laws if a vehicle is trapped.
Bottom Line: Don’t block driveways unless you have permission.

On Someone Else’s Drive

Parking on private property without permission is a civil offence (trespassing). While enforcement can be tricky, you could face legal action.
Bottom Line: Avoid parking on someone else’s drive.

Zig-Zag Lines

Parking on zig-zag lines (typically near pedestrian crossings or schools) is illegal and dangerous, as it obstructs visibility.
Bottom Line: Never park on zig-zag lines.

Single White Lines

Parking on single white lines is usually allowed unless other restrictions apply.
Bottom Line: Check for signage, but parking is generally permissible.

Yellow or Red Lines

Yellow Lines:

Single yellow lines often allow parking outside restricted hours (check signs). Double yellow lines usually prohibit parking at all times.

Red Lines: Found on red routes, these have stricter rules. Single red lines may allow parking during specified times, but double red lines prohibit it altogether.
Bottom Line: Respect yellow and red line rules to avoid fines.

Pavements

In London (and Scotland from 2023), parking on pavements is generally illegal unless signs indicate otherwise. Outside these areas, pavement parking is allowed but can incur fines if it obstructs pedestrians.
Bottom Line: Avoid pavement parking unless signs permit it.

Near Junctions

Parking within 10 metres of a junction is discouraged to maintain visibility and safety. While not illegal, you may be fined if you cause an obstruction.
Bottom Line: Park at least 10 metres away from junctions.

Double Parking

Double parking (parking opposite another parked car) can obstruct traffic. Choose alternative spots when possible, and ensure adequate space remains for passing vehicles.
Bottom Line: Avoid double parking when feasible.

Key Takeaways

Learn where on-street parking is outright prohibited—like dropped kerbs and double yellow lines. For other areas, consider how much obstruction your vehicle may cause. Always prioritise safety and courtesy to other road users.

FAQs

How much will a PCN or FPN cost me?

The cost varies by location and prompt payment. PCNs typically range from £50 to £120, with a 50% reduction if paid within 14 days.

Can I challenge a parking ticket?

Yes, you can challenge fines if you believe they were issued incorrectly. Gather evidence, such as photos, and file your appeal within 28 days.

Are there special rules for parking at night?

Yes. Parking against the traffic flow on streets at night is illegal unless in a designated parking bay. You must also use parking lights if parked on roads with speed limits over 30mph.

What about during large events?

Local councils may impose additional parking restrictions during significant events. Check online or on event and council websites for temporary changes.

For more practical advice and driving tips, turn to Leo Driving School, your partner in safe and confident driving.