When you can park on double yellow lines without getting a fine

Daily Record

2 days ago

There are two situations where motorists can stop on double yellow lines legally
Drivers may not be aware that there are two specific circumstances where pulling up on double yellow lines shouldn't be a problem. These exemptions allow motorists to stop or park on double yellow lines as long as they're not causing a blockage or hindering traffic movement.
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The first exception applies to blue badge holders, as reported by the Express. Official guidance states that badge holders "may park on single or double yellow lines for up to 3 hours, but in general not where there are restrictions on loading or unloading indicated by yellow kerb dashes and/or signs on plates".
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It adds: "You may wish to check whether a particular local council has chosen to exempt Blue Badge holders from this restriction." Nevertheless, drivers must bear in mind that the guidance also makes clear: "You are not entitled to park on yellow lines in off-street car parks."
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There are also rules regarding correct blue badge display when parking on these lines, with advice reading: "You must display the Blue Badge and the blue parking clock showing the quarter hour period during which you arrived.
"You must wait for at least one hour after a previous period of parking before you can park the same vehicle in the same road or part of a road on the same day."
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An additional exemption exists for loading and unloading vehicles. This activity can occasionally be carried out whilst parked on double yellow lines, though there are several considerations to bear in mind.
According to the British Parking Association (BPA): "Single and double yellow lines control waiting. Even where waiting is prohibited, if you can do so safely you may set down and pick up passengers and may also stop to load or unload goods unless this is prohibited by short yellow kerb marks or 'blips'."
Motorists should also look out for any displayed signs that might impose additional restrictions, such as specific timeframes for stopping or limited duration periods. For instance, Manchester city council advises "while you can load or unload for as long as it takes, your vehicle must be moved immediately after you have finished loading or unloading."
Authorities have the power to issue fines for loading or unloading activities they consider "not reasonable". Remember, even with these exceptions in place, you could still be hit with a penalty charge notice (PCN) if you're causing an obstruction or hazard, so it's important to always park considerately.