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UK's Dropped Kerb Parking Rule Sparks Controversy

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/2 .. ropped-kerb-parking-rule-sparks-controversy.html
  Published in House and Home on Sunday, February 22nd 2026 at 1:06 GMT by Birmingham Mail
      Locales: England, UNITED KINGDOM

Sunday, February 22nd, 2026 - A seemingly innocuous change to the UK Highway Code, implemented on January 29th, 2024, continues to cause confusion and, for some, significant inconvenience. The new regulation prohibits drivers from parking over dropped kerbs, even if that kerb fronts their own driveway, unless explicit permission is granted by their local authority. While intended to improve accessibility for pedestrians, especially those with disabilities, the rule is sparking debate about practicality, enforcement, and potential financial burdens on homeowners.

For years, a grey area existed regarding parking across dropped kerbs linked to private driveways. Many residents operated under the assumption that as long as the driveway was theirs, some degree of obstruction was permissible. This is no longer the case. The updated Highway Code now explicitly states drivers "must not cross or cover a dropped kerb with a vehicle unless you have permission from the highway authority." This effectively means a vehicle's tyres cannot break the plane of the lowered section of the kerb, even if the car is parked within the property boundary.

The impetus for this change comes from sustained campaigning by disability advocacy groups. For individuals using wheelchairs, mobility scooters, or those pushing prams and buggies, dropped kerbs are crucial infrastructure, providing safe and independent access to pavements. Previously, cars parked partially or fully over these kerbs forced vulnerable pedestrians into the road, creating a dangerous situation. Groups like the Disability Rights UK and Living Streets have long argued for stricter enforcement to guarantee universal access.

However, the implementation hasn't been without its challenges. A significant hurdle is the variability in local authority interpretation and application of the rule. Gaining permission to park across a dropped kerb, even temporarily for loading or unloading, is proving difficult in some areas. The application processes are often lengthy, bureaucratic, and require supporting documentation. This has led to instances where residents have received penalty charge notices (PCNs) despite attempts to comply with the new regulations, simply due to a lack of clear communication or a delayed decision from the local council.

The financial implications are also a growing concern. Drivers who ignore the rule face a potential fine of up to GBP70, a sum that can quickly accumulate if repeated offences occur. More subtly, the rule is impacting property values in certain areas. Properties with driveways that necessitate parking over a dropped kerb are becoming less desirable, potentially decreasing their market value. Estate agents are now advising potential buyers to carefully assess the driveway situation and the local authority's stance on dropped kerb access.

Beyond the immediate impact on drivers and homeowners, the rule is also raising questions about wider road design and accessibility. Critics argue that the focus should be on ensuring sufficient accessible parking spaces are available, rather than penalizing residents for utilizing their existing driveways. There's a growing call for local authorities to invest in creating more dropped kerbs and pedestrian crossings in areas where they are currently lacking.

Looking ahead, several key developments are expected. Many local councils are currently reviewing their policies on dropped kerbs, aiming to streamline the application process for permits and provide clearer guidance to residents. The Department for Transport is also considering a national awareness campaign to further educate drivers about the updated Highway Code. There is discussion around creating a standardized national approach to permits, removing the current postcode lottery of regulations. It's also likely that we'll see an increase in the use of Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to enforce the rule, potentially leading to a surge in PCNs.

The situation highlights the delicate balance between road safety, pedestrian accessibility, and the practicalities of everyday life. While the intention behind the new rule is laudable, its successful implementation requires clear communication, consistent enforcement, and a willingness from local authorities to address the concerns of residents and provide reasonable solutions. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this new regulation genuinely improves accessibility for all, or becomes another source of frustration for UK motorists.