Parking near your home can be a nightmare in busy towns and cities, with many households owning multiple vehicles. Even if you have a driveway, you might be tempted to park across it to create extra space. However, doing so could land you with a fine of up to £130, even if you are only blocking your own vehicle.
Is It Illegal to Park Across Your Own Driveway?
Under UK law, it is illegal to park across a dropped kerb, regardless of whether it is your own driveway. Dropped kerbs are designed to provide safe access for vehicles to cross the pavement. Blocking them can obstruct access for residents and emergency services. Additionally, regularly driving over a raised kerb to access your property is also an offence and can result in penalties.
What Are the Penalties?
Parking over a dropped kerb can lead to a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) typically ranging from £50 to £130, depending on the local council. Fines are often reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days. In some cases, vehicles may be towed. For crossing a raised kerb without a proper vehicle crossing, the penalty can be up to £1,000, plus the cost of repairing any damage to the pavement or underground utilities.
Exceptions to the Rule
While blocking your driveway is generally prohibited, there are some circumstances where it may be acceptable:
- Emergency situations: If there is a medical emergency or fire at your property, you may temporarily block the driveway to allow emergency vehicles access.
- Loading and unloading: Briefly blocking the driveway to load or unload heavy items is understandable.
- Maintenance and repairs: Temporary obstruction may be necessary for property maintenance or repairs.
- Moving house: Removals vans can park in front of the driveway while loading or unloading belongings.
- Neighbourhood parking restrictions: In some areas, restrictions may prohibit others from parking in front of your driveway, making it acceptable to block the entrance.
What Do Local Councils Say?
Wigan Council confirms it is an offence to park across a dropped kerb, even if it is your own home. Ealing Council adds that while parking across a dropped kerb is generally prohibited, family members and visitors may park there with your permission, provided they have a visitor permit in controlled parking zones. However, if the dropped kerb is shared with a neighbour, they cannot park there. Direct Line warns that crossing a raised kerb can damage your vehicle and lead to fines of up to £1,000. Newcastle City Council emphasises that you must apply for a dropped kerb (vehicle crossing) if you want to drive over the pavement legally, as it is illegal to do so without one.
How to Avoid a Fine
To avoid penalties, always park within designated spaces and never block a dropped kerb, even if it is your own driveway. If you need to park across your driveway temporarily for a valid reason, ensure it is brief and necessary. For regular access, consider applying for a proper vehicle crossing from your local council.
