The Legal Position on Pavement Parking
Pavement parking is not universally illegal across the UK — but the law is moving in that direction. London: Prohibited since 1974 under the London Traffic Management Act. Scotland: The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 introduced a general ban, fully in force from 2023. England and Wales: Not universally prohibited, but councils can use Traffic Regulation Orders (TROs) to create local bans. Reform of the law in England and Wales following a 2020 government consultation is anticipated. Even where not prohibited by TRO, pavement parking may be actionable under the Highways Act 1980 if it causes obstruction or damage to the footway surface.
Why Physical Prevention Works Better Than Enforcement
Enforcement requires officer attendance, evidence gathering, and formal notice issuing — resource-intensive for councils facing budget pressures. Physical prevention is a one-time investment that works 24/7, requires no officer time, produces immediate deterrent effect, and removes the need for repeat attendance at persistent problem locations.
Bollard Strategies for Pavement Protection
Fixed Bollards Along Footway Edge
A line of fixed bollards along the footway edge prevents vehicles mounting the pavement. Key specification:
- Maximum spacing: 1.2m to prevent standard cars driving between posts
- Height: Minimum 700mm for visibility; 900–1000mm for pedestrian protection
- Diameter: Minimum 100mm
- Finish: Black or dark green in residential areas; yellow/black where visibility is primary concern
Removable/Lockable Bollards
Where residents or businesses need periodic vehicle access, lockable removable bollards allow the property owner to remove their specific post when needed while the rest of the line provides continuous pavement protection. Available with individual key locks or a master key system for managed access.
Flexible Delineator Posts
Where the priority is defining the footway edge visually rather than providing hard vehicle resistance, flexible delineator posts offer lower cost and reduced injury risk on impact. Not suitable where deliberate vehicular intrusion is anticipated.
Getting Permission for Footway Bollards on the Public Highway
- Contact the local highway authority — usually via the council's highways department
- Submit a proposal with details of the problem, proposed locations, and product specifications
- Highway authority assessment of sight lines, utility conflicts, and compliance with public realm design guide
- Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) may be required alongside physical measures in some cases
- S278 Agreement for formal council adoption of the works
Legal Considerations When Installing Bollards
- Do not obstruct emergency vehicle access — maintain minimum 3m clear width for fire appliances
- Ensure bollards do not obstruct dropped kerbs used by wheelchair users or parents with prams
- BS 8300 accessibility guidance should inform placement relative to footway widths
- Check for underground utilities before drilling — use a CAT scanner or call LSBUD
- Ensure bollards are visible after dark (retroreflective banding minimum)
Private Land Applications
On private land (private roads, retail car parks, private estates), bollards can be installed without highway authority consent. The landowner's obligation is to ensure the installation does not create a hazard to pedestrians — ensure adequate clearance for wheelchair users and avoid creating trip hazards with protruding fixings.
Conclusion
Preventing pavement parking through physical measures is effective, durable, and increasingly the preferred approach for local authorities and communities. A well-designed bollard scheme protects pedestrians, preserves footway surfaces, and reduces enforcement burden. Browse our bollard range including removable, fixed, and flexible options for footway protection.