MANY properties in the UK have a dropped kerb to allow access to the driveway.
There are also some in places where people in wheelchairs or mobility vehicles may need to cross a road or leave the pavement.
There are rules in place you need to know about if you want to park safely and without receiving a fine.
How close can you park to a dropped kerb?
Road users should know about the two types of dropped kerbs: one for pedestrians and the other to allow car access.
The Highway Code tells drivers all the rules they need to stick to so they stay safe on the road.
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This includes Rule 243 which says you should not stop or park where the kerb has been lowered to help wheelchair users and powered mobility vehicles, or in front of an entrance to a property.
This means vehicles should not be parked fully or partially across the kerb, as this is an obstruction and against the law.
There is no advice on the distance you should park away from the dropped kerb, but you should think about whether you're in the way of pedestrians and people who need to access their driveway.
What is the fine for parking over a dropped kerb?
You could be hit with a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of up to £90 if you park over a dropped kerb.
In extreme cases the vehicle may be taken away and impounded.
If a vehicle is parking over a dropped kerb, you can report it to the local police or council.
Drivers could also receive a PCN even if they park over a dropped kerb in front of their own property.
To avoid this, contact your local council with the make, model and registration of your vehicle along with proof it's where you live.
Once you've done this, you shouldn't be at risk of receiving a fine for parking on the dropped kerb outside your house.
Can I park in front of a driveway without a dropped kerb?
Homeowners who have a driveway must have a dropped kerb at the front of their house.
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It's not allowed to drive over a footpath onto the driveway if there is no lowered kerb.
You need to apply to your local council to be able to be given permission for a dropped herb.
There are costs for a survey though - and permission may not be granted.
You could also be liable for costs to damage to the footpath and utility pipework or cables, and you may become liable if there's a collision with a pedestrian.
It is not illegal to park across someone's driveway if they DO NOT have a dropped kerb.
RED Driver Training says what makes driving across someone's driveway illegal is if there IS a dropped kerb - not that you're blocking access.
