Blue Badge holders can park in places other road users cannot, but there are still 11 places where parking is prohibited at any time. Misusing the badge is a criminal offence that can lead to a £1,000 fine and confiscation of the badge.
Where Blue Badge Holders Cannot Park
The UK Government states: "The blue badge is not a licence to park anywhere. If you park where it would cause an obstruction or danger to other road users you could be fined or receive a penalty charge notice or have your vehicle removed."
Although the rules are broadly the same across the UK, the list relates specifically to England, and holders should check variations for other UK nations.
Loading Bans and Reserved Bays
A blue badge does not allow parking where a ban on loading or unloading is in force, as indicated by kerb markings. Yellow marks on the kerb or at the edge of the carriageway indicate that loading or unloading is prohibited at the times shown on nearby black and white plates. Holders can check whether a local council has made an exception.
Similarly, the badge does not automatically grant the right to park in bays reserved strictly for local permit holders or residents. Again, holders can check whether their council has chosen to exempt them.
Crossings and Clearways
Parking is not allowed on pedestrian crossings, including zebra, pelican, toucan, and puffin crossings, and areas marked by zig-zag lines. The Highway Code is strict that you must not park on a crossing or in the area covered by the zig-zag lines.
The red-and-blue cross sign denotes a clearway, meaning motorists are prohibited from stopping at any time. Unlike other restrictions that operate only during specified hours, the clearway regulation means you cannot halt your vehicle on that section of road for any purpose whatsoever, unless faced with an emergency.
Bus Stop Clearways
A bus stop clearway is a section of road where other vehicles are strictly prohibited from stopping or parking so that buses can pull in and out safely. A vehicle is considered parked in a bus stop clearway if any point in the clearway is below the vehicle and the vehicle is stationary.
