UK police have clarified the rules for dealing with vehicles blocking driveways, explaining that in most areas local councils now handle enforcement under Civil Parking Enforcement (CPE), and that blocking a dropped kerb driveway is an offence under these provisions.
One resident asked the official 'ask the police' website, administered by forces across the UK: "Someone has parked their car and it is blocking my driveway - what shall I do?". The police response advised first making enquiries with neighbours to see if they know who owns the car so it can be moved.
Council Enforcement Under CPE
Under CPE, it is an offence to park a vehicle that blocks a dropped kerb driveway, the police said. Residents can check whether their local council has taken on CPE via the GOV.UK CPE List, and if so, should usually report obstructing vehicles directly to the council.
If the council refuses to act, residents can contact the police, but officers will only intervene under specific circumstances. If a local council has not taken on CPE, residents need to contact their local police force. Policies may vary between forces and councils, and some police forces may only attend if a car has been blocked in and cannot get out.
RAC Guidance on Parking Disputes
The RAC stated: "It is perfectly legal to park outside someone's house, unless the vehicle is blocking a driveway or a wheel is over a dropped kerb. Where no parking controls exist, drivers do not have an 'automatic spot' for parking outside their homes."
The motoring organisation added that if a vehicle is on a driveway and another car is parked on a public highway blocking access out, the council has the power to act. However, if the other car is on a drive, it is technically on private property and the council has no authority to remove it.
Trespassing and Next Steps
A police spokesperson explained that someone parking on a driveway without permission is trespassing, which is a civil dispute police cannot help with. If it happens repeatedly, they suggest seeking advice from Citizens Advice or a solicitor, but recommend having a polite word with the driver first.
Police advised trying to resolve the issue peacefully, leaving a polite note on the windscreen if the driver cannot be found, and contacting whoever is responsible for the building if the property is leased. If the problem persists, police recommend reporting it as antisocial behaviour.
