Parking on yellow lines: what you can & can’t do

What do yellow lines on the road mean?

Yellow lines are used throughout the UK to control parking and waiting vehicles. They are designed to keep traffic flowing and prevent congestion, especially in busy, urban areas.

There are two main types of yellow lines:

• Single yellow lines
• Double yellow lines

This article further explains the different rules each type of yellow line has, and how misunderstanding them is one of the most common causes of parking fines.

Can you get fined for parking on a single yellow line?

If you are within the restricted times, then you may receive a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN). These are normally due to people not reading the displayed signs and assuming that evenings are free. Another common reason people get fined for parking on single yellows is assuming parking is acceptable on bank holidays. In busy areas, especially cities, restrictions still apply the same on bank holiday weekends.

Double yellow line parking fine

A double yellow line parking fine is one of the most common penalties in the UK. The cost of these fines can vary depending on the area – you are typically looking at £50 – £130 per penalty. This is normally higher in big cities such as London.

Most PCNs have a reduction of 50% if paid within 14 days and you do have the ability to appeal the fine if you believe that you have been wrongly fined. You would need to provide sufficient evidence at this stage and the penalty will be paused for further investigation.

Blue badge holders: rules on double yellow lines

In many situations, Blue Badge holders can park on double yellow lines for up to three hours in England and Wales, while there is generally no time limit in Scotland. However, certain rules and restrictions still apply for this to be permitted. These are:

• The blue badge must be clearly displayed in the front window for the traffic enforcement officer to see.
• The parking clock on the badge must be visible in the front window.
• The vehicle is not causing any obstruction to any other road user or pedestrian.
• Local restrictions may vary for blue badge permits depending on the council you are in, so make sure to double check.

The only time that a blue badge holder cannot park on a double yellow line is if:

• There are loading restrictions which will be clearly marked by kerb marking (or blips).
• There is a clear sign that indicates that no parking is allowed for all car users.
• The vehicle would block traffic or emergency access.

Find out more information on the GOV UK site.

What is the difference between yellow parking lines and red parking lines?

Whilst you cannot park on yellow parking lines, you can usually briefly stop for certain reasons, however red parking lines are much stricter and are designed to keep traffic moving. A single red line means no stopping during specified times, and a double red line means no stopping at any time — not even briefly in most cases. You typically can’t park, wait, or stop unless you’re in a clearly marked bay.

As a simple rule: yellow lines mean check the signs, while red lines usually mean no stopping at all.

Parking on yellow lines: tips for drivers

To summarise, parking on yellow lines is not permitted unless there are set time restrictions or you hold a blue badge. Here are some key things to remember to avoid fines and causing any issues on the road:

• Always check signs before leaving your vehicle, as these can vary.
• Look for kerb markings as well as road lines.
• Don’t rely on assumptions — rules vary by location, especially in busy cities.
• Be cautious in cities where enforcement is stricter.
• When unsure, it is best to find a legal parking space instead of risking it.