If you’ve seen a single yellow line while driving in the UK, you might be asking: ‘Can you park on a single yellow line?’ Many drivers don’t fully understand parking signs, and getting them wrong can lead to unexpected fines.
Unlike double yellow lines, which mean no parking at any time, single yellow lines have time-based restrictions that vary by location and time of the day. That’s why we’ve created this guide at Remitly to explain when you can and cannot park on single yellow lines. In this guide, you’ll learn how to read the signs and what to do if you accidentally break the rules.
What does a single yellow line mean?
A single yellow line painted along the kerb or edge of the road means parking or waiting is only restricted at certain times. The exact hours when you can park or wait are shown on nearby signs or plates, usually next to the line or at the entrance to a Controlled Parking Zone (CPZ).
These single yellow line parking rules apply across England, Scotland, and Wales, although local councils might have slightly different times and enforcement rules. It’s smart to check local signs to be sure before you park your vehicle. In Northern Ireland, as well, the rules governing single yellow lines are identical to those in the rest of the UK, although Northern Ireland’s traffic laws are based on a separate legal framework.
When can you park on a single yellow line?
You can park on a single yellow line outside the displayed restricted hours. Common yellow line restrictions include weekdays such as Monday to Friday, 8 am to 6 pm, or similar time blocks. Signs usually use black text on white or yellow plates, with messages like ‘No waiting at any time except loading’ or ‘No parking 8 am to 8 pm every day.’
In many areas, parking on a single yellow line is allowed on Sundays and bank holidays, unless a sign specifically says otherwise. Some locations also have permit holder exemptions or special arrangements for residents. Check for signs indicating ‘residents only’ parking or permit zones before leaving your vehicle.
How to read single yellow line signs
Knowing how to read single yellow line signs while driving helps you avoid unnecessary fines.
Understand the times
Check the specific days and times at each location to see exactly when parking is restricted. Pay attention to any seasonal or temporary changes, such as holiday schedules or roadworks, which may affect usual restrictions.
Check for pavement markings
Look for extra yellow markings painted at right angles to the kerb near the single line. They usually show whether additional restrictions apply, especially for limits on loading or unloading.
If there are no signs or plates, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can park freely. Parking restrictions may still apply to maintain safety and fair access to spaces. These can include:
- Controlled parking zones: The street might be part of a CPZ, where entry and exit signs show the parking rules for the whole area. Always look for these signs at the zone boundary or for repeated signs along the street.
- Restricted parking zones: While similar to CPZs, these areas don’t have yellow lines along the road. Instead entry signs and occasional reminders display the parking, waiting, and loading restrictions.
Exemption and special cases
Before we look at the penalties for parking on single yellow lines, let’s discuss some exemptions and special cases:
Loading and unloading
You may stop briefly on a single yellow line to load or unload goods, but only if there aren’t any loading restrictions. If you see yellow marks on the kerb or a sign that says ‘No loading or unloading’, you’re not allowed to stop there during the specified time.
Blue Badge holders
If you hold a valid Blue Badge, you can park on a single yellow line for up to three hours, as long as there are no loading restrictions. Be sure to display your badge and set your parking clock to show when you arrived. Be mindful of local variations, as some councils may restrict Blue Badge parking during certain hours.
Emergency situations and breakdowns
If you have a medical emergency or your vehicle breaks down, you can stop on a single yellow line. However, it’s best to contact the police or local authorities right away to explain your situation and get advice on what to do next.
Motorcycles and bicycles
UK transportation and parking rules for motorcycles and bicycles can vary. Some places have designated parking bays or allow two-wheeled vehicles to park on certain roads. Always look for nearby signs to know what’s allowed.
Penalties for parking on single yellow lines
Parking on a single yellow line in the UK can result in a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN), with fines varying by location and severity of the offense. Standard fines are around £70, which could rise to £160 in London. If you believe that the PCN was issued unfairly, you can challenge it.
To do that:
Check the ticket type and issuing authority
A PCN can be issued by your local council or by Transport for London (TfL) for parking, bus lane, or traffic offenses. Read the notice carefully and it will tell you how and when to pay or appeal your fine.
Submit an informal challenge or formal representation
If you find a PCN on your windscreen, you can challenge the penalty charge online or by post, explaining why you think the ticket is unfair. If you receive a PCN by post, usually called Notice to Owners (NtO), you can make a formal appeal. Use the form or website link provided by the letter.
You have to file your appeal within 28 days. The council will review your case and reply with a decision. If it’s accepted, the fine will be cancelled. If not, you can take it to an independent tribunal for review.
Appeal to an independent tribunal
You can appeal a penalty charge if you have valid reasons—for example, if road signs were unclear or missing or someone else used your vehicle without permission.
For tickets in Wales or in England but outside London, appeal at the Traffic Penalty Tribunal; for tickets in London, you’ll go through London Tribunals. For Scotland, you’ll contact the Transport Appeals tribunal at the First-Tier Tribunal for Scotland, and for Northern Ireland, you’ll appeal through the Northern Ireland Traffic Penalty Tribunal.
To strengthen your appeal, gather as much supporting evidence as possible, including:
- Photographs: Clear images showing the location, signage, and road markings (especially if unclear, missing, or damaged).
- Parking ticket or permit: Proof that you had valid authorisation to park, like a resident permit or pay-and-display ticket.
- Receipts or logs: Evidence of loading, unloading, or medical emergencies, explaining why you stopped.
- Breakdown proof: Garage invoices, tow truck receipts, or repair documentation if your vehicle was immobile.
- Witness statements: Written confirmation from passengers or bystanders supporting your account.
- Correspondence: Copies of all emails, letters, and forms exchanged with the council.
You can attend the hearing in person, over the phone, or online. If you win the appeal, the PCN will be cancelled and you won’t have to pay anything.
Make payment
You have 28 days to make the payment. If you pay within 14 days, you’ll usually get a 50% discount. If you don’t pay within 28 days, you’ll receive a Charge Certificate, giving you another 14 days with a 50% surcharge. Keep in mind that if you pay the fine before challenging the fine, you’re accepting the penalty and lose your right to appeal.
Tips for safe and legal parking
Here are a few tips to stay safe and legal on UK roads:
Use parking apps
Apps like Parkopedia, JustPark, or RingGo let you check restrictions, spaces, and prices before you arrive. They’re useful in busy or unfamiliar areas.
Avoid blocking driveways
Even if there are no single or double yellow lines, parking across driveways or dropped kerbs is illegal. It can lead to a fine or your car being towed. Always leave enough space for access.
Plan ahead of special events
During local events or football matches, temporary parking restrictions may apply. Check council websites or event notices beforehand to avoid surprises.
Set a reminder
If you’re parking during permitted hours, set a phone alarm to remind you when your time is up. This will help you remember to move your vehicle before restrictions come into force so you can avoid getting a fine.
Consider alternatives
When parking on single yellow lines isn’t allowed, use nearby pay-and-display car parks, marked parking bays, or park-and-ride areas. These options are safer and help you avoid unnecessary penalties.
Know before you park
Single yellow lines don’t mean you can never park there. These areas just have time-based restrictions displayed clearly on nearby signs. Always check these signs before leaving your car, as rules can change depending on the area and time of the day.
Bookmark your local council’s parking information page or use reliable parking apps for quick checks. By doing this, you’ll make parking less stressful, stay on the right side of the law, and save yourself from unnecessary penalties.
FAQs
What happens if you park on a single yellow line during restricted hours?
You could get a penalty charge notice if you park on a single yellow line during restricted hours. This may result in a fine you have to pay, unless you were wrongly ticketed and you successfully challenge the penalty charge.
How much is a fine for parking on a single yellow line?
Fines vary by area. In most places, the standard fee is £70, but can be as high as £160 in London. You get a 50% early payment discount if you pay within 14 days.
Can I park on a single yellow line with a Blue Badge?
Blue Badge holders can park on a single yellow line for up to three hours where no loading restrictions apply. To do so, you have to display your badge and parking clock.
Am I allowed to stop on a single yellow line for loading or unloading?
Yes, but only if there are no explicit loading restrictions, such as yellow kerb dashes or ‘No loading’ signs.
Do parking rules for motorcycles and bicycles differ from cars?
Yes. Motorcycles have to use designated bays or car parking spaces but cannot park on pavements. Bicycles can use cycle stands or park on pavements without causing obstruction, subject to local laws.