Motorists across the UK are being warned they could face a £100 fine for a common parking mistake that many drivers are guilty of making. Major Highway Code changes came into effect in 2022, but more than three years later, not all motorists are familiar with the revised rules.
What the Highway Code says about parking
Rules 238 to 252 cover parking, and according to Rule 243, stopping or leaving your vehicle in front of someone's property entrance could result in a £100 fine if you are caught. Other prohibited areas for parking include near school gates or anywhere that might obstruct access for emergency services.
You should also avoid stopping or parking at or near bus or tram stops, taxi bays, as well as close to level crossings or within 10 metres of junctions. The 2022 Highway Code amendments were introduced to enhance safety for the most vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.
Additional restrictions and exceptions
Fresh rules also ban stopping or parking where dropped kerbs accommodate wheelchair users or in locations blocking cycle lanes. However, the Code does permit brief stops in these restricted areas when vehicles are trapped by stationary traffic.
It is worth remembering, though, not every Highway Code rule carries legal weight, with a distinction between "must not" (legally enforced) and "do not" (advisory). Rule 243 falls into the latter category, reports the Mirror.
Scottish regulations are tougher
However, in Scotland, the regulations are stricter, stating you "must not" park or leave your vehicle where the kerb has been dropped to help pedestrians or cyclists. This means that in Scotland, the rule is legally enforceable, and drivers could face fines for non-compliance.
Drivers are advised to familiarise themselves with the updated Highway Code to avoid unexpected penalties. The £100 fine is a fixed penalty notice, and while it may be advisory in England, local authorities can still enforce parking restrictions through civil enforcement officers.
