Aberdeenshire Council Begins Enforcement of National Pavement Parking Ban

Enforcement Commences in Aberdeenshire

As of Tuesday, November 4, 2025, Aberdeenshire Council has officially begun enforcing the national ban on pavement parking, issuing fines to motorists found in violation of the regulations. This move marks a significant step in improving pedestrian safety and accessibility across the region.

Prior to this date, the local authority had focused on an extensive education and awareness campaign, which included issuing over 1,845 warnings to drivers. While most motorists reportedly responded positively to these efforts, persistent instances of pavement parking have prompted the council to transition to active enforcement.

National Legislation and Its Objectives

The ban on pavement parking, double parking, and parking at dropped kerbs stems from the Transport (Scotland) Act 2019. This legislation, which received Royal Assent in 2019, became enforceable by local authorities across Scotland from December 11, 2023.

The primary objective of the ban is to create safer and more accessible spaces for pedestrians. Pavement parking can force individuals, particularly vulnerable road users such as those using wheelchairs and mobility aids, parents with young children and buggies, and people with visual impairments, into the road, significantly increasing the risk of accidents.

Penalties and Prohibited Actions

Motorists who violate the new rules in Aberdeenshire will now face a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) of £100. This fine is reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.

The prohibitions apply to:

• Parking with one or more wheels on any part of the pavement, including within cul-de-sacs.
• Double parking, defined as parking alongside another vehicle or more than 50cm from the kerb.
• Parking at dropped kerbs intended for pedestrian or cycle use, such as at pedestrian crossings, beside pedestrian islands, or where tactile paving is located.

The ban applies to all public roads and pavements, regardless of ownership, but does not extend to private driveways or paths serving a single property.

Exemptions and Local Assessments

Certain exemptions are in place for specific circumstances. These include vehicles used by emergency services, medical practitioners in emergency situations, and those undertaking roadworks or waste collection. Limited exemptions also exist for deliveries and collections, provided the vehicle is parked for no longer than necessary (up to 20 minutes) and maintains at least 1.5 metres of clear pavement.

Aberdeenshire Council conducted a thorough assessment of its footways and has designated a small number of exemption orders where necessary, ensuring these areas are clearly marked. Councillor Alan Turner, chair of the council's Infrastructure Services Committee, emphasized that the council carefully assessed the region's pavements and applied appropriate exemptions where legislation allowed.