The Highway Code rule we've probably all broken even though it can get you £70 fine
London drivers might want to think twice about where they leave their cars, as the seemingly innocent act of pavement parking could come with a hefty £70 fine.
It's been against the law to park on pavements in the capital since 1974, enforced by authorities aiming to keep the city's footpaths clear.
As per Rule 22 of the Highway Code: "You must not park partially or wholly on the pavement in London, and should not do so elsewhere unless signs permit it."
Not only is this a nuisance but also "Parking on the pavement can obstruct and seriously inconvenience pedestrians, people in wheelchairs or with visual impairments and people with prams or pushchairs."
If you're unlucky enough to get caught, the fine is steep, but act quickly and you could halve that cost if you pay up within 14 days.
Unless you have certain grounds for contention and decide to appeal, a Penalty Charge Notice signals you've contravened the rules—though some may be able to persuade the council with a strong enough reason for an appeal.
This pavement parking ban was established under the 1974 Greater London Council (General Powers) Act.
The law prohibits drivers from parking on city streets in the capital with their vehicle's wheels on pavements, grass verges or land between carriageways. However, there are exceptions to this rule in certain areas.
These are clearly indicated by special blue parking signs, depicting a car with one wheel on the kerb. At times, parking bays marked with white lines extend onto pavements to indicate that parking is allowed.
In areas where it is not permitted, the law provides protection for specific situations, such as drivers unloading goods, extinguishing a fire or saving a life. Those who violate these regulations may face a fine.
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