Parking Restrictions Outside School

What are the yellow zig-zag lines on the road outside schools for?

Pick-up and drop-off times are busy outside school. This can cause an increased safety risk to both children and parents. Parking restrictions, the yellow zig-zag lines, outside school are there to keep you and your children safe. 

Do not park or stop even for a short moment on these markings.

Enforcement and fines

You’ll see time plates on poles near the zig-zag road markings. Please adhere to these times.

The Highway Code states: “You MUST NOT wait or park, or stop to set down and pick up passengers, on school entrance markings.” 
(Highway Code rule 238, Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.)

It’s important that motorists follow the Highway Code.

The Highway Code – Parking and Waiting

The Highway Code – Road Markings

A small number of parents/carers continue to stop or park illegally and dangerously on these markings and are also at risk of being fined.

We all want to keep your children safe. You can help – keep the zig-zags clear.

Do you have to drive to school?

Most children live close enough to walk or cycle to school. Please consider this option. It's often faster than driving in the rush-hour and looking for a safe and legal place to park. Walking is good exercise for children... and for you! Additional benefits include significantly better air quality outside cars (especially if you use quieter back streets) and children arrive better prepared to settle in class and learn after an active, stimulating and energetic journey to school. 

If you really must drive, allow time to park safely and considerately, and do not block entrances, driveways, or junctions - you may have to park some distance away from the school and walk the rest. Morning arrival and afternoon departure of pupils inevitably results in traffic jams near schools so allow plenty of time for your journey. Try walking or cycling one day, it may be faster!