Half of British drivers say illegal parking on double yellow lines is a 'significant problem'

A majority of British drivers say illegal parking on double yellow lines is a significant problem where they live, according to a large survey by the Automobile Association (AA).

The nationwide poll of almost 15,000 drivers found 51 percent described parking on double yellow lines as a serious local problem. Six percent of respondents admitted to parking on double yellow lines themselves, often saying they were unaware of the restriction or believed it was safe. Regional and age differences were apparent: drivers in the West Midlands and North West expressed the highest levels of concern, with 55 percent calling it serious, while only 47 percent in Eastern England felt the same. Among motorists aged 25 to 34, 57 percent viewed the practice as a serious issue; by contrast, 44 percent of those over 65 said they did not see it as a serious concern.

Under the UK Highway Code, double yellow lines indicate that parking or waiting is not permitted at any time, irrespective of whether there are accompanying signs. Blue Badge holders in England and Wales may park on double yellow lines for up to three hours provided they are not causing an obstruction; local restrictions displayed by signs or yellow kerb markings can impose additional limits.

The AA said the findings point to growing frustration with motorists who flout parking regulations, particularly in urban areas where visibility, access and safety are at stake. The motoring group called for clearer signage, improved public education and more consistent local enforcement to address what it described as a "social and practical" problem.

"Parking on double yellow lines is illegal for a reason — it’s there to protect visibility, access, and safety for everyone using the road," Jack Cousens, AA head of roads policy, said in a statement accompanying the survey. "In cities, it can block emergency vehicles, delay buses, and put pedestrians at risk. In quieter areas, it may not seem as urgent, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. That’s why we’re urging councils to take a more localised approach by combining clear signage, consistent enforcement, and public education."

Local enforcement arrangements have changed in recent years. Most councils now manage civil parking enforcement after a change in the law decriminalised some parking offences, a move that allowed authorities to take responsibility from local police forces. The AA said an earlier period of reduced enforcement by underfunded police forces had opened the door to more illegal parking, and it urged councils to apply powers more robustly in communities where the problem persists.

Police and traffic officials say parking on double yellow lines can create immediate safety risks. Vehicles parked on or adjacent to double yellow lines can block sightlines for drivers, force pedestrians, parents with prams and people using mobility aids into the carriageway, impede cycles and delivery vehicles, and delay buses and emergency services. Heavy goods vehicles and buses may be forced to reroute or idle in traffic, contributing to congestion and pollution.

The AA’s survey also noted a community impact beyond these physical effects. Respondents described a loss of trust and a sense of unfairness where enforcement is inconsistent, with one breach encouraging others to follow suit. The motoring organisation said that addressing signage, education and enforcement in combination would help prevent what it called a "cycle of disregard."

The debate over parking restrictions has extended to pavement parking. Earlier this month, separate polls found strong public support for tighter controls on vehicles mounting kerbs. A poll by the RAC of 1,703 drivers reported that 83 percent backed a nationwide crackdown on pavement parking; a separate poll of 2,700 readers by a national newspaper found 70 percent in favour. Pavement parking is already illegal in London and Scotland, but rules vary elsewhere in the United Kingdom. Political parties have pledged action on pavement parking as part of broader urban and road-safety plans.

Councils and motoring groups said any response should be proportionate to local needs. The AA recommended that authorities adopt targeted campaigns that combine clear road markings and signs with consistent enforcement to reduce the risk and nuisance caused by illegally parked vehicles. Councils that have stepped up civil enforcement in areas where problems are acute say that visible patrols and penalty notices can deter repeat offenders and improve road safety.

The AA survey underscores a persistent tension between drivers’ needs for convenience and the wider requirement to keep streets clear for safety, access and public transport. With a majority of surveyed motorists describing illegal parking on double yellow lines as a significant local problem, the organisation said councils, police and national policymakers should consider a mix of education, signage improvements and enforcement to reduce incidents and protect vulnerable road users.