How close can you park to a dropped kerb?

THERE are a number of rules and restrictions when it comes to parking.

And that includes parking close by to dropped kerbs and driveways – here’s everything you need to know.

How close can you park to a dropped kerb?

According to the Highway Code, Rule 243 – ‘you should not stop or park where the kerb has been lowered to help wheelchair users and powered mobility vehicles, or where it would obstruct cyclists except when forced to do so by stationary traffic.’

With that in mind, drivers should be mindful when parking near a dropped kerb – vehicles should ensure they are not parked fully or partially across the kerb.

Road users should also be aware that there are two types of dropped kerbs – for pedestrians and for car access.

What is the fine for parking over a dropped kerb?

The fine issued for this parking violation is a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of up to £90 and if appropriate the vehicle may be removed and impounded.

Complaints of this contravention can be made to the local police or council.

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Drivers should also be aware that they could be at risk of receiving a PCN for parking across a dropped kerb outside of your own property.

If your property has a dropped kerb outside of it, the best course of action is to contact your local council with the make, model and registration of the vehicle along with proof of residence.

Once all of the above information is registered – you will no longer be at risk of receiving a fine for parking on your own dropped kerb.

Can I park in front of a driveway without a dropped kerb?

According to Rule 234 of the Highway Code you should ‘not stop or park in front of an entrance to a property except when forced to do so by stationary traffic.’

If you intend to drive a vehicle over the footway into your driveway off a highway, then you will need a dropped kerb. If you do not have dropped kerb, you must not drive over the footway.

If you do so, you are breaking the law and enforcement action could be taken to prevent such practice.

If your vehicle is causing an obstruction and is completely blocking a driveway a PCN can be issued.

However, if the vehicle is not obstructing a driveway and the car is taxed, insured and not in breach of any parking restrictions – local authorities cannot take any action.

In cases of a vehicle being parked in front of a driveway for an extended period of time and without tax for over a month – local authorities can then take action.