Motorists with Blue Badges are being alerted to 11 specific locations where they are never permitted to park, with warnings that violations could lead to substantial fines, especially in the busy run-up to the Christmas period.
Key Locations Where Parking is Forbidden
Disabled drivers must be aware that their Blue Badge does not grant universal parking rights. There are several critical areas where parking is prohibited at any time of day or night. This is a crucial piece of motoring advice to prevent penalties.
The list of prohibited places includes clearways, including urban and bus stop clearways during their operational hours. Parking is also forbidden on roads with double white lines in the centre, even if one line is broken.
Other off-limits areas are pedestrian crossings and their zigzag lines, as well as any parking spaces specifically reserved for other users, such as residents or taxis. Locations with yellow kerb markings also prohibit parking.
Additional Restricted Zones and Common Misconceptions
Further restrictions apply in numerous other everyday situations. Drivers cannot park in loading bays unless signs explicitly grant time allowances for badge holders.
Similarly, it is prohibited to stop on school 'keep clear' markings during the hours shown, in suspended meter bays, or on single or double red lines during their operational hours.
Temporary restrictions, such as those for roadworks indicated by no-waiting cones, must also be observed. Furthermore, Blue Badge holders are not entitled to drive or park in bus, tram, or cycle lanes.
Understanding Your Parking Concessions
While the restrictions are important to know, the Blue Badge also provides significant concessions. Holders can typically park free of charge and without a time limit at on-street pay-and-display and parking meter spaces.
They are also usually permitted to park for free on single or double yellow lines, provided no loading restrictions are in force and it is safe to do so. Parking is naturally free in designated on-street disabled person’s parking bays.
The cost of a Blue Badge is a maximum of £10 in England and up to £20 in Scotland, while they are issued free in Wales. Each badge is generally valid for up to three years.
