East Dunbartonshire Council is set to start enforcing the national pavement parking ban from Monday 1 September 2025.
The Transport (Scotland) Act 2019 prohibits pavement parking, double parking and parking across dropped kerbs, and powers have been granted to councils to enforce the legislation.
The law aims to improve the safety of pedestrians, particularly those with mobility issues, visual impairments, and parents or carers with pushchairs.
Additionally, pavements are not designed to bear the weight of vehicles, and persistent parking can cause significant damage, causing a trip hazard and leading to expensive repairs.
Local authorities now have the power to enforce this law and issue fines through Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs) of £100, reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.
East Dunbartonshire Council will begin enforcing these new rules on Monday 1 September 2025 and is launching a campaign across the area to raise awareness of the new regulations to ensure that the legislation is not a surprise to those who live, work, and park in this area.
Councillor Paul Ferretti, Convener of the Council’s Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets Committee, said, “The message here is clear: pavement parking is unsafe, unfair and illegal.
“Many people face daily difficulties with pavement parking. It is dangerous and frustrating, especially for those with impairments or limited mobility and with mental health challenges.
“Pavement parking has serious consequences and can force people to take unnecessary risks. It can force people using wheelchairs, guide dogs or pushing buggies onto the road, putting their safety at risk.
“Even if you think you have left enough space, only parked two wheels on the pavement or you won’t be parked for long, pavement parking can have harmful consequences to people who use the pavement.
“By not parking on the pavement it ensures our roads and pavements are safer and more accessible for everyone.”
The message here is clear: pavement parking is unsafe, unfair and illegal.
Certain exceptions to the ban are permitted under the Act. These include:
- Police, ambulance, Scottish Fire and Rescue Services, HM Coastguard, or naval or air force purposes
- Roadworks, removal of traffic obstructions, waste collection by local authorities, or postal services
- Urgent or emergency health care by registered medical practitioners, nurses, or midwives
- Assistance at an accident or breakdown
- Delivering or collecting goods, provided the vehicle is parked for no longer than necessary (up to 20 minutes).
Additionally, a small number of streets in East Dunbartonshire will be exempt from the ban following a review.
An external consultant was appointed by the Council to undertake an assessment of its road and footway network.
They used strict criteria to identify 13 locations across East Dunbartonshire that were suitable for exemption orders to allow parking on the footway to ensure the safe passage of emergency vehicles.
These locations can be found on the Pavement Parking page on the Council’s website.
