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Waiting and Parking Rules (UK)

Having a summary of the UK Highway Code rules for waiting and parking is a useful resource, especially if you're learning to drive.

Based on the most current guidelines, the information in this simplified help guide explains how to improve safety, reduce congestion, and respect other road users.

What are the Rules for Parking in the UK?

There are 307 rules in the Highway Code. So, is the Highway Code law or guidance in the United Kingdom? In fact, if you see words such as "MUST", or "MUST NOT", you need to obey the instructions.

Conversely, you can consider wording such as "should" or "should not" as being a recommendation or some specific guideline.

No matter which, all motorists should check the official Highway Code for the latest details, because rules and guidance can be updated.

Important: You can download a free PDF version of the Highway Code guidance that also explains some of the key differences in Northern Ireland.

Waiting (Stopping Temporarily)

When the Highway Code uses the term "waiting" it refers to a temporary stop. A typical example would be to pick up or drop off passengers or goods.

Under these circumstances, the key rules for stopping temporarily include:

Do not wait where it would endanger or obstruct other road users, such as on pedestrian crossings, at junctions, or near school entrances.
No waiting in restricted areas: You must not wait in areas marked with double white lines (even if one is broken), where there are waiting restrictions (e.g., yellow lines), or in "clearways" unless signs permit.
School entrances: Never wait opposite or within 10 metres (32 feet) of a school entrance, except in designated areas.
Near junctions: Avoid waiting within 10 metres (32 feet) of a junction, except in an emergency or where parking is allowed.
Zigzag lines: No waiting at all on zigzag lines near pedestrian crossings or outside schools, as these are kept clear for visibility and safety.

If you need to wait, choose a safe, legal spot away from these restricted areas. Use hazard lights if you are stopping briefly in an emergency. Even so, this does not exempt you from the safe parking rules.

Parking (Leaving Your Vehicle)

In simple terms, "parking" means you are either leaving your vehicle unattended for a short time or for a longer period (e.g. abandoned). The Highway Code has specific rules to prevent obstruction and to help ensure safety:

Do NOT park:

On a pedestrian crossing, including the area marked by zigzag lines.
On clearways (no stopping at any time) or bus stops (unless signs allow).
Near a school entrance, on bends, or near the top of a hill where visibility is reduced.
Opposite or within 10 metres (32 feet) of a junction, unless in a designated parking space.
On yellow lines during controlled hours (check signs for restrictions). Double yellow lines mean no parking at any time.
In spaces reserved for specific users (e.g., disabled bays) unless you have the right permit.
Where it would obstruct emergency services, driveways, or cycle lanes.

Note: In the United Kingdom, you cannot stop someone parking in front of your house unless you have a dropped kerb. If so, parking in front of someone's driveway would be breaking the rules of the Highway Code. In addition, you must not park facing oncoming traffic in the United Kingdom. In general, there is no right of way when you are parking your vehicle in a car park.

Additional Rules:

Park close to the kerb and avoid blocking the flow of traffic.
On single yellow lines, parking is restricted during certain times (check signs or road markings).
In controlled parking zones (CPZs), follow signs for time limits and permit requirements.
Use parking apps, meters, or pay-and-display machines where required, and display tickets clearly.

Safety Considerations:

Never park on the hard shoulder of a motorway unless it is an emergency.
On steep slopes, turn wheels toward the kerb and use the handbrake to prevent rolling.
At night, park in well-lit areas and ensure lights are visible if parking on the road.

Urban and Residential areas:

Be mindful of special parking schemes for residents and the rules on loading and unloading bays. In many cases, they will have specific times for use.

Special Situations

Loading and Unloading:

You can stop briefly to load or unload, but not in areas with no loading/unloading restrictions (e.g. double yellow lines with kerb markings).

Disabled Parking:

Blue badge holders have specific rights but must still follow general parking rules.

Electric Vehicles:

Check for rules in charging bays, because misuse can result in fines. The main section explains more about the new highway Code rules for Electric Vehicle charge points.

Decriminalised Parking Enforcement (DPE)

Ignoring parking and waiting rules can lead to fines, penalty charge notices (PCNs), or towing. Local councils and traffic wardens enforce these rules, and roadside cameras may be used in some areas.

Important: Always look for signs and road markings, as they override general rules. If you're unsure, use parking apps, local authority websites, or sat navs for up-to-date information on parking restrictions.