Pavement parking is currently legal everywhere in the UK except London, but it may be subject to change, as vehicles blocking the pathways cause serious problems for the pedestrians – especially the elderly, disabled people and those who are using prams or pushchairs.
New parking laws are currently being considered, including a widespread ban on pavement parking in the UK, with fines reaching £70.
A spokesperson for LeaseCar.uk said: “At the moment, there is a significant grey area when it comes to parking on pavements.
“Although people are advised to keep the pavements clear for pedestrians, there are many places in the UK where roads are so narrow that you have no other option…
“Until new laws come into force, we have some guidance for the drivers who want to prevent being penalised for illegal parking.”
Don’t park on the pavement unless signs allow it
The Highway Code states that you shouldn’t park even partially on the pavement, unless roadside signs permit you to do it. In London there is an explicit blanket ban on pavement parking, whereas everywhere outside the capital you need to watch out for areas where it’s not illegal to do so.
Don’t cause unnecessary obstruction to the road
Don’t park in dangerous places or areas where you could potentially block the access to essential services or entries. You should avoid leaving your vehicle in areas near schools and property entrances, bus stops, lowered kerbs or anywhere where you could impede the Emergency Service’s access to premises.
Look out for a blue and white sign
When parking on the pavement is permitted, then it will be clearly shown on a blue and white sign with a graphic of a car on the pavement, either fully or partially. If you see this sign, then it means you’re safe to park on the pavement in that particular area, just make sure you position your car in the way that is shown on the sign.
Use the pavement on narrow roads
Outside London, common sense should be used on narrow roads where parking on the pavement would be the more sensible option. Parking along small roads can seriously impede the traffic, making it difficult for other vehicles to get through. This can have significant consequences, particularly when your car is potentially delaying emergency vehicles.
The pavement outside your house is part of the highway
Although some people think that the pavement outside their house is part of their property, this is not true unless you live on a private road. All pavements belong to the council and are subject to the Highway Code, which means you don’t have the authority to park there without permission.
Don’t park on yellow and red lines or zig zags
The pavement parking law can be quite confusing but you shouldn’t forget the fundamental parking regulations. The road markings are there for a reason, denoting locations where parking your car can cause obstruction to the traffic or pedestrians.
