If someone parks on your private land without permission, you have legal and practical options to deal with it—but you must act within civil law. Unauthorised parking is typically treated as trespass, and while it can be frustrating, enforcement must be handled correctly.
Immediate Actions
- Record details – note the vehicle’s make, model, registration, and time parked
- Take photographs – useful evidence for repeat incidents or disputes
- Contact the driver (if possible) – many situations can be resolved quickly
- Report serious obstruction – if access is blocked or there’s a safety risk, contact the police on 101
Legal Options for Landowners
- Treat the vehicle as trespassing on private land
- Request removal directly from the driver
- Issue a Parking Charge Notice (PCN) if clear signage is in place
- Consider civil action if there is damage, financial loss, or repeated trespass
Police involvement is usually limited to cases involving obstruction of the highway, criminal damage, 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 confrontation or attempting to move the vehicle without consent
Preventing Repeat Issues
- Install bollards, gates, or height restriction barriers to control access
- Use CCTV and clear signage to deter and support enforcement
- Work with a BPA or IPC-approved parking operator if ongoing management is needed
Key Takeaway
You can’t forcibly remove the vehicle—but you can control access and prevent it happening again, which is usually the most effective long-term solution.
