England’s New Pavement Parking Rules Could Mean Fines of £130

Pavement Parking Fines of Up to £130 Set to Reach England in 2026

New Pavement Parking Rules in England Could Bring Fines of Up to £130 in 2026 New pavement parking enforcement is set to give councils across England greater powers to tackle vehicles blocking footpaths, with fines expected to range from £60 to £130. The change is being introduced through the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act, which will allow local authorities to take over enforcement from the police. By late 2026, civil enforcement officers are expected to have the legal authority to issue parking fines to drivers who park on pavements where it is not permitted. Councils to Take Over Pavement Parking Enforcement Under the new system, local councils will be able to enforce pavement parking rules rather than relying on police action. The change is intended to make enforcement more practical and consistent, with civil enforcement officers already responsible for other types of parking enforcement. For pedestrians, the aim is to keep pavements accessible and reduce situations where people are forced into the road because a parked vehicle is blocking their path. This could be particularly important for people using wheelchairs or pushchairs, as well as visually impaired pedestrians and other vulnerable road users. Exemptions Could Apply on Narrow Streets One of the main concerns for drivers is what will happen on narrow residential roads where parking entirely on the carriageway may cause problems. The legislation will allow councils to introduce exemptions for particular streets or zones where partial pavement parking is considered necessary. This means the changes are not necessarily intended to result in fines for every vehicle with part of its wheels on a pavement. Instead, councils will be able to establish local arrangements, with clearer markings and guidance expected as the new enforcement powers are introduced. Most Drivers Support a Pavement Parking Ban According to RAC data included in the source, 83% of UK drivers support a pavement parking ban when sensible exemptions are provided for narrow streets. Support for stronger enforcement has also been linked to concerns about accessibility, with organisations such as Guide Dogs highlighting the risks created when pavements are blocked. For drivers, the key issue will be understanding where pavement parking is permitted and where it could result in a Penalty Charge Notice. How Much Could Pavement Parking Fines Cost? Drivers caught parking on pavements where restrictions apply could face a significant financial penalty. The expected range is £60 to £130, mirroring the current penalty system in London. The exact enforcement approach will be determined locally, meaning drivers will need to pay attention to signs, markings and guidance issued by their council. The introduction of civil enforcement powers is expected to give councils a stronger way of dealing with vehicles that obstruct pedestrian routes. Vehicle Theft Rules Also Changing The source also highlights a separate change affecting UK motorists through the Crime and Policing Act 2026. The legislation introduces rules targeting so-called relay attack devices, which can be used to intercept signals from keyless vehicle systems. It becomes a specific criminal offence to possess, manufacture or sell these devices. For drivers, the changes represent a wider focus on vehicle-related enforcement, covering both parking behaviour and modern methods of car theft. With pavement parking enforcement expected to expand across England by the end of 2026, drivers will need to pay closer attention to local parking restrictions and any exemptions that apply to their street.