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Hi All, 🚸 Parking Outside Schools – Safety & Legal Guidance With the new school term beginning, roads around schools will once again become busy during morning drop‑off and afternoon pick‑up. These peak times bring increased risks to children, parents, and other road users.
This guide explains the rules, the reasons behind them, and how you can help keep everyone safe. 1. Why Parking Rules Matter Child safety first – Children are smaller, less visible, and may cross roads unpredictably. Clear sightlines are essential for drivers and pedestrians.Traffic flow – Congestion outside schools can cause frustration, unsafe manoeuvres, and block emergency access.Legal compliance – Parking restrictions are enforceable by law. Ignoring them can lead to fines or penalties2. Understanding Yellow Zigzag Markings Yellow zigzags with the words “School Keep Clear” are placed outside most school entrances.
They are also used at hospitals, fire stations, police stations, and ambulance stations. Purpose: Keep the area clear so children and other pedestrians can be seen when crossing.Allow emergency and service vehicles to enter and exit quickly.Rules: With a sign – Restrictions apply only during the times shown. Outside those hours, parking may be permitted.Without a sign – Treated as a constant safety zone. You should not park there at any time. Police can issue tickets if your vehicle causes an obstruction.With yellow lines – Single or double yellow lines alongside zigzags mean additional restrictions apply (check local signage).3. Parking Opposite Zigzags Strongly discouraged – It reduces visibility for children crossing and can force them to step into the road between parked cars.Some schools have zigzags on both sides of the road to prevent this hazard. 4. Safe Parking Practices When dropping off or collecting children: Plan ahead – Allow extra time to find a safe, legal space.Avoid zigzags – Never park on them and try not to park opposite them.Respect residents – Do not block driveways, garages, or access roads.Use designated areas – If available, use school car parks, park‑and‑stride schemes, or nearby public parking.Encourage walking – Even parking a short distance away and walking the last stretch reduces congestion and improves safety.5. Fines & Enforcement Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) – Issued by local councils where civil parking enforcement is in place.- Civil matter, no points on your licence.
- Reduced fee if paid within 14 days.
Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) – Issued by police or police‑employed traffic wardens in areas without council enforcement powers.- Criminal process, may involve court if unpaid.
Higher fines – Apply for stopping in restricted school zones during active restriction times.Payment deadlines – 14 days for reduced rate, 28 days to pay or appeal.6. The Bigger Picture Following these rules: Protects children’s lives.Reduces road rage and congestion.Avoids unnecessary fines.Sets a positive example for young people about road safety and respect for the law.Best wishes, |
