Motorists could be hit with a £130 fine for pavement parking unless expressly allowed by one sign, with heavy penalties in place across the nation.
In certain circumstances, drivers in some areas are permitted to park on the footpath if particular signs are present to indicate this; however, without such guidance, it's likely you'll face sanctions.
The rules are especially strict in London and Scotland, but councils all over the UK have laid down their own guidelines that might catch drivers unaware, leading to costly consequences.
According to Rule 244 of the Highway Code: "You MUST NOT park partially or wholly on the pavement in London or Scotland. Exceptions are allowed in limited circumstances. You should not park partially or wholly on the pavement elsewhere unless signs permit it."
The ban comes from a need to ensure free passage for all pedestrians, with parked cars on pavements potentially becoming severe obstructions, particularly for wheelchair users and individuals with sight loss.
The Highway Code adds: "Parking on the pavement can obstruct and seriously inconvenience pedestrians, people in wheelchairs or with visual impairments and people with prams or pushchairs."
In London, drivers who park on pavements could be hit with a fine of up to £130. This penalty can be halved if paid within 14 days of being issued, under the Greater London Council (General Powers) Act, which prohibits parking on urban roads where the vehicle's wheel is on pavements, grass verges, or any land between carriageways.
Conversely, in Scotland, motorists who violate this rule face a £100 fine, reduced to £50 if settled within 14 days. It's worth noting that local councils across the nation may enforce their own regulations regarding pavement parking, particularly in city centres.
Therefore, it's crucial to check for any signs indicating parking rules before leaving your vehicle, as local authorities have the power to issue fines of up to £130.
There are instances where you might be allowed to park partially or wholly on a verge or footway, but a sign permitting this must be visible. The blue and white sign will display a 'P' symbol with a car either halfway or fully on a ledge, depending on the type of parking permitted.
These signs are typically found on particularly narrow streets where parked vehicles are less likely to obstruct pedestrians and other road users.