More than 8,000 fines issued in first year of Edinburgh's pavement parking ban

More than 8,000 fines have been issued in the first year of Edinburgh’s pavement parking ban.

The rules, which came into force in January 2024, are designed to protect pavement users – especially those in wheelchairs or pushing buggies – who may be forced onto the road by vehicles taking up the pavement.

Drivers caught parking on pavements, double-parking and parking across dropped kerbs will face a £100 fine, reduced to £50 if they pay within 14 days.

It comes after Glasgow’s pavement parking prohibition came into force last week.

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Enforcement will also be taken against vehicles that are double parked or parked next to dropped kerbs.

Local authorities were given new powers to stop vehicles from parking on pavements by the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019, which came into effect in December 2023.

Councillor Stephen Jenkinson, transport and environment convener, said: “We brought the pavement parking ban in to provide a safe and accessible environment for everyone, especially those with sight impairments, mobility issues or pushing buggies.

“We’ve also heard from many people who really appreciate clearer, wider pavements and who no longer need to walk on the road as a result of the ban.

“I’m proud that we took this decision to make our streets as safe and accessible as possible – and that local authorities across Scotland are now looking to Edinburgh’s lead and implementing schemes of their own.”

Policy and campaigns manager at Guide Dogs Scotland, Mike Moore, said: “One year on from the enforcement of pavement parking restrictions in Edinburgh, people with sight loss say it has made a real difference.

“By keeping pavements clear, the new rules have helped to ensure that people in the capital can get out and about safely, without the fear of being forced on to the road by inconsiderate parking.”

David Hunter, Living Streets Edinburgh group convener, said: “The City of Edinburgh Council deserves credit not only for being the first in Scotland to apply the national ban on pavement parking, but also for adopting a “no streets exempt” policy.

“This been the most significant change to make Edinburgh a safer and more attractive city for pedestrians since the introduction of widespread 20mph speed limits.”