Blocking a Dropped Kerb Could Lead to a Parking Fine

Dropped Kerb Parking: When Could You Receive a PCN?

Dropped Kerb Parking Rules: When Could Drivers Get a PCN? Parking across a dropped kerb can cause problems for pedestrians, wheelchair users, mobility scooter users and residents trying to access driveways. For drivers, blocking a dropped kerb can also result in a Penalty Charge Notice where the relevant parking restrictions apply. When can a council issue a PCN? Under existing rules, councils can enforce certain dropped-footway parking restrictions where the necessary parking controls are in place. This means drivers should not assume that parking across a dropped kerb is acceptable simply because there are no yellow lines directly beside it. Dropped kerbs can provide access to driveways, pedestrian crossing points and other areas where vehicles need to be able to pass safely. Parking across these locations can therefore attract enforcement. Neighbour complaints can bring attention to a vehicle Parking enforcement does not always begin with a routine patrol. Complaints from residents can also draw attention to vehicles that are blocking access. For homeowners and other residents, this can be particularly frustrating when a vehicle repeatedly parks across a dropped kerb or prevents access to a property. Drivers should therefore avoid assuming that a quiet residential road means parking across a dropped kerb will go unnoticed. How much could a parking ticket cost? The exact penalty depends on the location and the parking restrictions that apply. Drivers should be cautious about claims that every dropped-kerb offence automatically carries a £150 PCN. Penalty levels can vary between enforcement areas, so motorists should check the details on any notice they receive and the rules applying to the road where they parked. Parking opposite a driveway is different A common misunderstanding is that drivers are automatically banned from parking opposite someone's driveway. The road outside a property is generally public highway space, and homeowners do not automatically have exclusive rights to the parking space outside their home. However, a vehicle can still become a problem if it causes unnecessary obstruction or breaches another parking restriction. Finding an alternative to street parking For drivers who regularly struggle to find suitable parking near their home, workplace or destination, privately rented parking spaces can offer another option. A driveway, garage or allocated parking space that is available to rent can provide a more convenient alternative to searching for a legal space on a busy residential street. For homeowners with unused parking space, renting it out can also turn an otherwise empty driveway or allocated bay into a useful source of income. Check before you leave your car Dropped kerbs should always be treated carefully when choosing somewhere to park. Even where enforcement is not immediately visible, a vehicle blocking access can create problems for other road users and potentially lead to a PCN. With parking restrictions varying between locations, checking local signs and restrictions before leaving a vehicle remains one of the simplest ways to avoid an unexpected parking charge.