FAQs

Illegal parking in the UK refers to stopping or leaving a vehicle in a location or position that breaks road traffic laws, local regulations, or causes an obstruction or safety risk. Rules differ slightly depending on whether the land is public or private, but the principles are the same — vehicles must not block, endanger, or restrict access.

Examples of Illegal Parking on Public Roads –
🚫 Parking on double yellow lines or red routes where no waiting is allowed
🚷 Stopping on zigzag lines near schools or pedestrian crossings
🔒 Parking on pavements or blocking dropped kerbs (illegal in London, and being phased in nationwide)
🚗 Obstructing driveways, junctions, or emergency exits
📍 Parking in disabled bays without a Blue Badge

Illegal Parking on Private Land –
🏗️ Parking on private property without permission (e.g. business car parks, driveways, or gated sites)
💷 Drivers can face parking charge notices (PCNs) from landowners or management companies
🚧 Persistent parking offenders may be classed as trespassers under civil law

Enforcement –
⚖️ Local authorities and police can issue fines, tow vehicles, or prosecute repeat offenders
🏢 Private landowners can take civil action or use barriers and bollards to prevent re-entry
🚓 Serious obstruction or dangerous parking may result in vehicle removal by police

At Aremco Barriers, we help councils, businesses, and landowners prevent illegal parking with UK-manufactured height barriers, bollards, and swing gates — ensuring safe, controlled, and compliant access to car parks and private sites.

Enforcement of illegal parking in the UK depends on where the vehicle is parked — public roads are handled by local authorities or police, while private land is managed by the landowner or their appointed parking operator.

On Public Roads –
🚓 Local councils are responsible for most parking enforcement under civil parking regulations.
📋 Civil Enforcement Officers (CEOs) can issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) for offences such as:
 • Parking on double yellow or red lines
 • Parking in disabled or loading bays without authorisation
 • Obstructing pavements or junctions
⚖️ Police deal with parking that causes danger or obstruction (e.g. blocking emergency access, pedestrian crossings, or creating road hazards).

On Private Land –
🏢 The landowner or site manager is responsible for enforcement.
💷 They may issue Parking Charge Notices (also called private PCNs) via approved parking management firms.
🧾 Private parking firms must follow the British Parking Association (BPA) or International Parking Community (IPC) codes of practice.
🚗 Persistent offenders may be treated as trespassers, allowing civil legal action or site access restriction.

When Enforcement Fails –
🔒 Businesses and landowners often install bollards, swing gates, or height barriers to physically stop repeat offenders.
📹 CCTV and signage help gather evidence and deter unauthorised parking.

At Aremco Barriers, we work with local authorities, retail parks, and private landowners to prevent illegal parking before it happens — using UK-manufactured steel bollards, height barriers, and access control gates that provide visible, long-term protection.

If a car is blocking your driveway, what you can do depends on whether the vehicle is on a public road or private land. In most cases, it’s best to stay calm, gather evidence, and contact the right authority — taking direct action yourself could cause legal issues.

If It’s on a Public Road (Blocking Access to Your Drive) –
🚓 Contact your local police (non-emergency 101) – they can act if the vehicle is causing an obstruction or blocking a dropped kerb
📸 Take photos or video evidence showing the obstruction
📋 Note the vehicle’s registration and time it was parked
⚖️ The police may issue a Fixed Penalty Notice or arrange for removal if it’s a repeat or serious offence

If It’s Parked on Your Private Property (Driveway or Yard) –
🏗️ The vehicle is technically trespassing, but police may not intervene unless there’s damage or criminal activity
💷 You can ask the local council for advice or contact a private removal company (must be legally licensed)
⚠️ Never clamp, block-in, or move the vehicle yourself — this could be considered harassment or criminal damage

Preventing It from Happening Again –
🔒 Install removable or telescopic bollards across your driveway entrance
🚧 Add clear “No Parking – Private Drive” signage
💡 Consider CCTV or motion-sensor lighting as a deterrent
📞 Keep a record of incidents to report repeat offenders to authorities

At Aremco Barriers, we manufacture UK-made steel driveway bollards and posts that provide an effective, visible way to stop vehicles from blocking access — protecting your property and your peace of mind.

In most cases, yes — parking on double yellow lines is illegal. Double yellow lines indicate no waiting at any time, whether the restriction is during the day or night. However, there are a few specific exceptions depending on the circumstances and signage nearby.

When Parking on Double Yellow Lines Is Illegal –
🚫 At any time — unless signs show specific time restrictions
🚷 When stopping causes an obstruction or safety hazard (e.g. near junctions or crossings)
🚓 If you leave the vehicle unattended, even for a short period
🏗️ When parking on pavements or verges next to double yellow lines (the restriction still applies)

When It May Be Allowed –
✅ Blue Badge holders can park on double yellow lines for up to 3 hours, as long as there’s no loading ban and it’s safe to do so
📦 Loading or unloading may be permitted where no kerb blips or signs indicate restrictions
⏱️ Taxis or emergency vehicles may stop temporarily while in service

Key Points to Remember –
⚠️ Always check nearby signs or kerb markings before stopping
📸 Civil Enforcement Officers can issue Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) for illegal parking
💡 If unsure, park elsewhere — “waiting” means staying stationary, even with the engine running

Parking on private land without permission isn’t a criminal offence, but it is classed as trespassing under civil law. That means while it’s not “illegal” in the criminal sense, the landowner still has rights to take action — including requesting removal or pursuing compensation.

What Counts as Private Land –
🏠 Residential driveways or private roads
🏭 Business car parks, depots, or industrial estates
🏞️ Privately owned fields, open land, or access routes

What the Law Says –
⚖️ Unauthorised parking is a civil matter, not a police issue (unless there’s damage or criminal behaviour)
💷 Landowners can issue Parking Charge Notices (PCNs) if signage clearly sets out parking terms
📋 Persistent trespassers may face civil claims or be refused future access
🚫 Police will only intervene if the vehicle is stolen, blocking a public highway, or causing danger

What Landowners Can Do –
🔒 Request the vehicle’s removal (politely and in writing if possible)
🚧 Use height barriers, gates, or removable bollards to stop repeat offenders
📸 Collect evidence (photos, registration, time/date) for civil enforcement
📞 Contact an approved private parking operator if ongoing issues persist

What You Shouldn’t Do –
❌ Never clamp, block-in, or damage the vehicle — this could lead to legal consequences

At Aremco Barriers, we help private landowners prevent unauthorised parking altogether with UK-manufactured steel bollards, barriers, and gates that protect entrances, driveways, and business premises from unwanted access.

If unauthorised vehicles park on private land, the landowner has several legal and practical options to deal with the problem — but all actions must follow civil law and avoid confrontation or damage.

Immediate Actions –
📋 Record details – note the vehicle’s make, model, registration, and when it arrived
📸 Take photographs for evidence in case of repeat offences or claims
📞 Contact the driver or business (if known) — sometimes issues are resolved quickly this way
🚫 If the vehicle blocks access or causes danger, contact the police (non-emergency 101)

Legal Options for Landowners –
⚖️ The vehicle is classed as trespassing, so landowners can:
 • Request removal directly from the driver
 • Issue a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) if clear warning signs are displayed
 • Apply for civil action if damage, loss, or repeated trespass occurs
🚓 Police can only intervene if there’s criminal damage, obstruction of the highway, or threatening behaviour

What You Must Not Do –
❌ Do not clamp, block-in, or tow the vehicle yourself — this is illegal under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012
❌ Avoid physical confrontation or attempts to move the car without consent

Preventing Future Problems –
🔒 Install bollards, swing gates, or height barriers to restrict vehicle access
📹 Use CCTV and signage to make enforcement easier and deter parking
💷 Consider working with a BPA- or IPC-approved parking management company

If you believe a parking ticket or Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) was issued unfairly, you have the right to challenge or appeal it. The process depends on whether the notice was issued by a local authority (public land) or a private parking company (private land).

1️⃣ Public Land – Council or Police-Issued PCNs
⚖️ These are legally enforceable under UK traffic laws.
To appeal:
📋 Do not ignore it – pay or appeal within the stated timeframe (usually 14 or 28 days).
🧾 Check the reason for issue on the PCN — mistakes (wrong registration, unclear signs, or valid Blue Badge use) can be grounds for appeal.
📤 Submit an informal appeal to the council first, with photos or evidence.
📬 If rejected, you can make a formal representation, and if needed, appeal to the Traffic Penalty Tribunal (TPT) or London Tribunals.

2️⃣ Private Land – Parking Charge Notices (PCNs)
💷 These are civil notices, not criminal fines.
To appeal:
🧠 Check if the operator is a member of the British Parking Association (BPA) or International Parking Community (IPC).
📸 Gather evidence — unclear signs, broken machines, or valid permits can support your case.
📝 Appeal directly to the operator first. If refused, you can escalate to:
 • POPLA (Parking on Private Land Appeals) – for BPA members
 • IAS (Independent Appeals Service) – for IPC members

Good Reasons to Appeal
✅ Incorrect or missing signage
✅ Valid ticket, permit, or Blue Badge
✅ Payment machine error or evidence of payment
✅ Emergency or mitigating circumstances

To stop illegal or unauthorised parking, property owners should combine physical deterrents with clear signage and good site management. The goal is to make it clear that parking without permission isn’t allowed — and physically prevent vehicles from entering or staying there.

Physical Deterrents –
🔒 Removable or telescopic bollards – ideal for driveways, car parks, and private access points where authorised vehicles still need entry
🚧 Height-restriction barriers – prevent larger vehicles, vans, or caravans from entering private or council car parks
🏗️ Swing gates or manual barriers – secure entrances after hours and control daytime access
🧱 Concrete planters, fencing, or perimeter rails – add extra protection for open land and business forecourts

Signage and Warnings –
📋 Display “Private Land – No Parking” or “Permit Holders Only” signs clearly at all entry points
⚖️ For enforceable fines, use a BPA or IPC-approved parking operator
💡 Keep signs visible, well-lit, and compliant with parking code of practice

Lighting and Monitoring –
📹 CCTV and motion lights deter opportunists and help gather evidence
🧾 Keep a log of incidents with photos and times to support future enforcement

Operational Measures –
✅ Restrict access with key holders, access codes, or automatic barriers
🔧 Regularly inspect gates and posts for damage or tampering
💷 Review security layout after any incident to strengthen weak points

At Aremco Barriers, we help property owners across the UK stop unauthorised parking with UK-manufactured steel bollards, swing gates, and barriers — giving you full control over access, visibility, and site security.

Installing physical barriers such as bollards and gates is one of the most effective ways to stop illegal or unauthorised parking on private land. Unlike warning signs or fines, physical security physically prevents vehicles from entering or remaining where they shouldn’t.

How Barriers and Bollards Help –
🔒 Block access completely – vehicles can’t enter car parks, driveways, or service roads without authorisation
🚧 Deter opportunistic parking – visible bollards and gates show the area is protected and monitored
💷 Reduce enforcement costs – prevent the need for fines, clamping, or towing (which is illegal for landowners)
🧱 Protect entrances and exits – stop driveways, emergency routes, or delivery bays being obstructed

Best Types of Barriers for Private Land –
🏗️ Removable or telescopic bollards – allow access only for authorised vehicles
🎨 Height-restriction barriers – prevent larger vehicles, vans, or caravans entering car parks or open land
🚪 Swing or sliding gates – secure entrances to private business sites or residential car parks

Additional Benefits –
💡 Enhances safety for pedestrians and staff
📹 Works alongside CCTV and signage for clear deterrence
✅ Reduces disputes and repeat offenders on private property

At Aremco Barriers, we supply UK-manufactured steel bollards, height barriers, and swing gates that give property owners total control over access — stopping illegal parking before it starts and protecting your land 24/7.

Nuisance parking refers to vehicles that cause obstruction, inconvenience, or disruption without necessarily breaking a specific parking law. It’s common on residential streets, near driveways, or on private land — and while it can be frustrating, it’s not always a criminal offence.

Examples of Nuisance Parking –
🚗 Blocking driveways or access routes without technically breaking a road law
🚫 Repeatedly parking outside someone’s home or business to cause annoyance
🚓 Leaving vehicles in private car parks without permission
🚧 Abandoning untaxed or broken vehicles on private or public property

How It’s Dealt With (Public Roads) –
⚖️ Local councils handle nuisance parking through parking enforcement officers if restrictions (e.g. yellow lines or permits) are in place
🚔 Police may act if the vehicle is causing a dangerous obstruction, blocking emergency access, or breaching Highway Code rules
📞 Residents can report persistent offenders to their local council or neighbourhood policing team

How It’s Dealt With (Private Land) –
🏢 The landowner can issue Parking Charge Notices (PCNs) if proper warning signs are displayed
🔒 Installing bollards, gates, or height barriers can prevent repeat offenders
📋 Evidence (photos, registration numbers, and times) can support a civil claim for trespass

Prevention Tips –
✅ Use clear signage stating “Private Land – No Parking”
💡 Improve lighting and CCTV visibility
🧱 Use physical deterrents to make unauthorised parking impossible

No — it’s illegal to wheel-clamp, block, or tow a vehicle on private land without lawful authority. Since the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, private landowners and parking operators in England and Wales are not allowed to immobilise or remove vehicles as a way of enforcing parking control.

What the Law Says –
⚖️ The Protection of Freedoms Act 2012, Schedule 4, made it a criminal offence to:
 • Clamp, tow, or immobilise a vehicle on private land without legal authority
 • Physically block a vehicle to prevent it leaving
🚔 Offenders can face fines or prosecution — even if the vehicle was parked without permission

Who Can Clamp or Tow Legally –
🚓 Police or local authorities – may tow vehicles for road safety, obstruction, or unpaid fines
🏛️ DVLA or government contractors – can remove untaxed or abandoned vehicles
🏢 Authorised parking operators – can only issue Parking Charge Notices (PCNs), not clamp or tow

What Landowners Should Do Instead –
🔒 Use bollards, gates, or height barriers to physically prevent access before parking occurs
📋 Display clear signage about parking terms or restrictions
🧾 Work with a BPA or IPC-approved parking company for lawful enforcement

Key Takeaway –
✅ You can’t clamp or tow — but you can prevent. The law allows deterrence, not immobilisation.

Fines for illegal parking in the UK vary depending on where the offence happened, who issued the notice, and how quickly you pay. They’re usually issued either by a local authority (Penalty Charge Notice – PCN) or a private parking company (Parking Charge Notice).

1️⃣ Local Authority Penalty Charge Notices (Public Roads) –
⚖️ These are official fines under civil law and are legally enforceable.
💷 Typical costs:
 • Higher-level offences: £70 (reduced to £35 if paid within 14 days)
 • Lower-level offences: £50 (reduced to £25 if paid within 14 days)
📋 Common offences include:
 • Parking on double yellow or red lines
 • Stopping in disabled bays without a Blue Badge
 • Parking in loading bays or blocking dropped kerbs

2️⃣ Private Land Parking Charge Notices –
🏢 Issued by landowners or private operators, not councils.
💰 Typical charges: £50–£100, often discounted by 40–50% if paid within 14 days.
⚖️ These are civil claims, not criminal fines, but can be enforced through the courts if ignored.

How Fines Are Calculated –
📍 Based on location (London charges are higher than elsewhere in the UK)
📆 Early payment discounts encourage prompt settlement
🚗 Severity and impact — dangerous or obstructive parking attracts higher penalties

What If You Don’t Pay? –
📬 The fine can increase by 50% after the payment deadline
🏛️ You may receive a Charge Certificate or County Court Judgment (CCJ) for unpaid fines

Yes — vehicles parked on pavements or across dropped kerbs can be fined, reported, or removed depending on where the offence takes place. These types of parking cause obstruction and safety hazards, especially for pedestrians, wheelchair users, and those with pushchairs.

Parking on Pavements –
🚫 In London, pavement parking is completely banned under the Greater London Council (General Powers) Act 1974.
⚖️ Outside London, it’s still an offence if the vehicle causes obstruction or damage to the pavement.
📋 The UK Government has announced plans to extend the pavement parking ban nationwide, giving local councils more power to enforce fines.
💷 Penalties typically range from £50–£70, reduced by half if paid within 14 days.

Parking Across Dropped Kerbs –
🚷 Parking across a dropped kerb (driveway entrance or pedestrian crossing point) is illegal in England, Wales, and Scotland.
🚓 Police and local councils can issue a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) or Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN).
🏗️ If a car blocks access to private property, it can be reported to police (101) for obstruction.
🚔 Persistent offenders may have their vehicle towed or removed if access is repeatedly blocked.

What Property Owners Can Do –
📞 Report obstruction to local police or council parking enforcement
📸 Take clear photos and note the registration, date, and time
🔒 Prevent repeat issues by installing removable or telescopic bollards at your driveway entrance

For any parking restriction to be legally enforceable, it must be clearly marked and properly signed in line with UK traffic regulations. If signs or road markings are missing, unclear, or inconsistent, a parking ticket may be successfully appealed.

On Public Roads (Council-Enforced) –
🚦 Parking restrictions are governed by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions (TSRGD) 2016.
📋 To be enforceable:
 • Lines and markings (e.g. yellow lines, loading bays, disabled bays) must be visible, continuous, and well-maintained
 • Accompanying signs must clearly state the restriction, hours, and enforcement authority
💷 If signage is unclear or missing, Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) can often be challenged successfully.
💡 Common examples include faded lines, missing timeplates, or signs positioned too high or obstructed from view.

On Private Land (Parking Charge Notices) –
🏢 Private parking enforcement must comply with the British Parking Association (BPA) or International Parking Community (IPC) Code of Practice.
⚖️ Signs must be:
 • Clear, readable, and visible at all entry points
 • State terms and conditions of parking, including any charges for unauthorised parking
 • Include the operator’s name and a reference to the appeals process (POPLA or IAS)
🚗 If signs aren’t displayed clearly, parking operators can’t legally enforce a charge.

Best Practice for Property Owners –
✅ Place signage at all entrances and within the car park
🎨 Keep markings visible with regular repainting and lighting
🔒 Combine signage with bollards or barriers for physical enforcement and clarity