Areas with most fines for footpath parking in Dublin revealed
The figures were released in response to a parliamentary question from Social Democrats TD Aidan Farrelly, and shows the number of fines across the six garda divisions in Dublin from January to June this year.
The second highest number of fines (182) was recorded in the North Central division, which covers Drumcondra and Glasnevin, followed by South Central (168), which takes in Rathmines and Harold's Cross.
The Western division, covering Tallaght and surrounding suburbs, recorded 147 fines, while the Southern division, which encompasses Dundrum and Rathfarnham, recorded 95.
Notably, the Eastern division, which covers the city centre and docklands, had significantly fewer fines, with just 67 issued.
This suggests that illegal footpath parking is more widespread outside of the city core itself.
Parking on footpaths blocks pedestrians, including vulnerable groups such as wheelchair users and parents with prams, and disrupts bus routes and emergency services.
Cyclists also face increased danger when cycle lanes are blocked, forcing them into traffic.
The issue recently gained fresh attention after community group I Bike Dublin painted fake parking spaces on footpaths along Phibsboro Road.
The group used non-permanent materials to highlight the extent of illegal parking, criticising the lack of consistent enforcement and calling for the return of parking wardens across the city.
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A spokesperson for the group said such illegal parking is a 'continuous daily occurrence' in the area, and the lack of enforcement shows a 'clear neglect of public space management'.
'Illegal parking isn't just an inconvenience; it's a misuse of public space that affects everyone, from pedestrians to buses,' they said.
'It's not just about a single-file walk or a blocked driveway; it's about creating a traffic choke point that impacts the entire community.
'The real issue isn't just a car parked in the wrong place, it's the systemic failure to enforce rules and address the problem effectively.
'What gets attention isn't the ongoing problem, but the visible action taken to highlight the issue, such as paint on the ground.
'It's not about punishing drivers; it's about maintaining the integrity of public spaces and ensuring everyone can use them safely.
'The problem with illegal parking isn't just that it's illegal; it's that it disrupts the flow of daily life and services, from pedestrians to buses,' they added.
An Garda Síochána and the Road Safety Authority have reminded drivers that parking on footpaths and cycle lanes is both illegal and unsafe.
Offenders can face fines ranging from €60 to €120, with serious violations attracting up to five penalty points.
The highest number of fines recorded across the country so far this year, was in Limerick, where 354 fixed penalty notices were issued.
Dublin City Council, The Road Safety Authority and An Garda Síochána have been contacted for comment.
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