Parents dropping children at school have been warned over blocking driveways, with an expert explaining when parking across a dropped kerb could lead to a fine.
The school run can bring a familiar headache for homeowners living close to schools, with cars sometimes left across driveways as parents rush to drop off or collect their children.
Under Rule 243 of the Highway Code, drivers should not stop or park in front of an entrance to a property.
George Penny, EV expert and director of The Solar Co, said parking across a dropped kerb can result in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) where the vehicle is causing an obstruction or preventing access.
"Parking in front of a dropped kerb, such as one installed for driveway access or to assist wheelchair users violates Rule 243 of the Highway Code, unless stationary traffic forced the vehicle to stop. In these cases, councils can issue a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) if the vehicle is causing an obstruction or preventing access."
PCNs outside London are typically £50 to £70, while London penalties are generally £80 to £130, depending on the borough. They can usually be reduced if paid promptly.
In more serious cases, police may also take action. Penny said dangerous parking can result in three penalty points, while certain offences involving double white lines can also carry three points.
Parents and homeowners clash
The issue has sparked debate among parents, with Mumsnet users describing the problems that can arise when schools are surrounded by residential streets.
One parent said she always tries to avoid blocking driveways but described a confrontation after her husband parked in what she said was their "usual spot".
She wrote: "We left more than enough space for him to get out I even offered to move the car."
The poster said the dispute had become so stressful that she was considering moving her children to a closer school so she could walk instead.
She added: "I am trying to move my kids to a nearer school so I can walk and finally put the parking drama to bed."
The parent said she was currently going through an appeals process after being told the local school had no space.
She asked other Mumsnet users whether she had been unreasonable, adding: "I’m at the stage where I don’t even want to take them to school now because of lack of parking and the dirty stares and arguments being caused by this."
She acknowledged the frustration of living close to a school, writing: "I can appreciate it’s frustrating living near a school."
Another Mumsnet user described the chaos outside their own primary school, which is surrounded by residential streets with plenty of side-road parking.
They said some parents still insist on getting as close to the school gates as possible, despite having to walk only an extra few minutes.
The poster claimed some drivers park across driveways and stop in the middle of pedestrian crossings, particularly when it rains.
They wrote: "They are barely looking as they drive like lunatics to then drop their precious 5 year old outside the gate all the while risking hitting other kids."
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What if someone parks on your driveway?
There are a number of options, including asking them to move their car, or complaining to the school if it is an ongoing problem.
If a vehicle is actually parked on your driveway without permission, the situation is different from blocking your dropped kerb on the public road.
Penny said: "If a vehicle is parked on your driveway without permission, the rules are different because it’s private property - including driveways fitted with EV chargers."
He advised homeowners not to attempt to move or damage the vehicle themselves, as they could potentially be held liable.
Instead, residents can contact their local authority for advice and keep photographs and timings of repeated incidents.
Homeowners can also consider measures such as a bollard or gate to prevent vehicles accessing the driveway.
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