Parking restrictions in the United Kingdom

The main control is through signed bans on waiting or stopping such as clearways or yellow lines or through charging and time restriction schemes.

Parking management is dependent on correct signage and markings as controlled by the Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions.

[1] In 1947, George Musgrave entered a competition with the suggestion that yellow lines should be painted along the side of the road to indicate that parking is not permitted.

Loading and unloading is allowed on double yellow lines at any time, unless there are additional markings indicating that there are 'loading restrictions'.

A single short yellow stripe at regular intervals across the kerb or edge of the carriageway indicates that loading and unloading is not permitted at the times shown on accompanying black and white sign plates.

[8] Two short yellow stripes at regular intervals across the kerb or edge of the carriageway indicate that loading and unloading is not permitted at any time (and the sign plates may be omitted).

[13] The prohibition extends to stopping for loading or unloading, and to boarding or alighting from a vehicle (except for licensed taxis and the holders of blue badges).

Single red lines means that the prohibition applies during times displayed on nearby signs or at the entry to the zone.