New pavement parking rules announced by DfT

Local council leaders across England will soon gain new powers to introduce wider pavement‑parking restrictions, helping ensure walkways stay open and accessible for disabled people and others who rely on clear routes, while still allowing exemptions where appropriate.

Obstructed pavements can seriously hinder parents with pushchairs, wheelchair users, blind and partially sighted people, and older residents, reducing independence and making everyday travel more difficult and less safe.

After consulting the public, the Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed that councils will receive stronger legal tools to manage pavement parking across broader areas, replacing the slow, street‑by‑street process previously required.

Because councils understand their neighbourhoods best, they will be able to decide where restrictions are needed and maintain flexibility in places where pavement parking remains suitable.

RAC Senior Policy Officer, Rod Dennis, said: "Our research shows a clear majority of drivers agree that no pavement user should be made to walk or wheel into the road because of someone else’s inconsiderate parking.

“These proposals should clear the way for councils to prevent pavement parking where it causes problems, but permit drivers to partially park on pavements where doing so helps keep traffic flowing and doesn’t inconvenience other people.”