Bath has become the first city in England to introduce an "SUV tax", charging residents more for parking permits based on vehicle size. The scheme, launched on August 25, adds supplementary charges for larger vehicles while offering discounts for smaller ones.
Size-based charges explained
Under the policy, owners of smaller Smart cars will receive a £20 discount on their annual permit. Drivers of larger vehicles, such as the Land Rover Discovery or Ford Galaxy, will pay up to £41 more. The highest premium applies to owners of the largest Ford Transit, who face a maximum charge of £112.
The charges are applied on top of existing emissions-based payments. Where no vehicle data is available, charges will be based on self-submitted photo evidence. The council also plans to increase the cost of residents' parking permits by 20% and introduce phased increases for visitor permits.
Council defends the policy
Bath and North East Somerset Council decided to proceed with the plans following a public consultation in 2025, despite backlash. Council cabinet member Joel Hirst defended the decision: "Research shows that larger vehicles like SUVs pose a greater risk to pedestrians and cyclists in collisions, with children particularly vulnerable. By introducing size-based permit charges, we are encouraging the use of smaller, safer and cleaner vehicles."
Similar charges were introduced in Cardiff last autumn, making it the first local authority in the UK to implement a parking premium for larger vehicles.
Residents react
Some residents have criticised the plan as "outrageous", arguing it unfairly targets families and people with disabilities who need larger vehicles. Bob, a 63-year-old retired Bath taxi driver, said: "The things they are doing don't make sense. I wouldn't mind so much, but they're not improving the public transport system. I don't think it's going to improve the congestion in the city, because it doesn't matter how much they put the charges up - people will still pay the charges."
However, 63-year-old Jayne Mallon supported the changes: "I think it's a good idea. Bigger vehicles should pay more - they take up more space and give out more pollution." The council said initial consultation feedback showed 50% of respondents supported introducing size-based charges or discounts for residents' parking permits.
