The Highway Code has a number of rules when it comes to parking, including a number of places where it is illegal to park – and this includes in front of someone’s driveway
Many homeowners with driveways have felt the frustration of being blocked in by another motorist. Not only does it hinder easy access to your property, but it can also spark neighbourly disputes, especially if the culprits live nearby.
Issues can escalate quickly if you reside in an area where driveway space is scarce or limited to a handful of properties on the street. But what rights do you have as a homeowner and what does the Highway Code stipulate? Crucially, the Highway Code asserts that a vehicle should never be parked blocking a property entrance.
This is outlined in rule number 243, along with a comprehensive list of other locations, including near school entrances or close to a bus or tram stop or taxi rank, reports Nottinghamshire Live.
Motorists are prohibited from parking on dropped kerbs in front of driveways. You could even find yourself slapped with a ticket if your vehicle is merely partially covering one.
The only exception to this rule is if a driver is compelled to stop or park due to stationary traffic.
According to the RAC, it’s perfectly legal to park outside someone’s house as long as you’re not blocking their driveway and they have ample room to get in and out.
The rule instructs drivers unequivocally not to park or stop “in front of an entrance to a property”.
Additionally, the code advises against stopping vehicles near school entrances or at bus, tram, or taxi stands.
It’s also prohibited to block access that would impede Emergency Services, as well as parking close to level crossings, junctions, on a bend, at the top of a hill, across a dropped kerb, or in a way that hinders cyclists.
This means that the space outside your home isn’t automatically yours, and parking is on a first-come-first-served basis, with some exceptions.
It’s crucial to ensure you’re not occupying a reserved spot when parking on a street.
Rule 241 reminds drivers not to park in spaces designated for specific users, such as Blue Badge holders, residents or motorcycles unless they are entitled to do so.