Road Markings/Double Yellow Lines

Double Yellow Lines are used across the country to identify places where parking is prohibited at all times. They are often accompanied by plates mounted on posts or nearby buildings giving further information on the restrictions in place, whether it is just no parking, or no loading / waiting as well for instance. The restriction applies from the centre line of the road to the back of the pavement. However it is a greyer area as to whether the restrictions apply where private land abuts the side of the road in the form of a private parking bay or similar. Such circumstances can be found outside business premises where parking is a regular occurrence.

Standard Double Yellow Lines are painted quite thickly, however there is also a narrower marking which is allowed to be used in heritage areas where a less visually intrusive marking is desirable. The Lines are terminated with short cross lines running from the outside of the main marking, and extending beyond the inner line to the kerb.

In the past Double Yellow Lines were commonly accompanied by additional yellow lines marked on the kerb, meaning a variety of different restrictions were in place. However, these seem to no longer be in use, with local authorities using plates as described above to provide a clearer definition of the restrictions.

Exemptions

The main exemption to no paring restrictions on Double Yellow Lines is for disabled badge holders. However, it is still expected that their vehicles are parked in a safe place without causing obstructions to other road users, and vehicles can still be subject to normal fines / removal if they are left in dangerous locations despite displaying disabled badges.