UK motorists will be fined £1.6m for illegally parking on yellow lines in 2024, according to new data.
The AA, which discovered these figures, maintains that while drivers are “willing to follow the rules”, they need “practical parking solutions”.
Parking on double yellow lines is prohibited at all times, with rare exceptions such as blue badge holders. Single yellow lines allow parking only during specific hours, indicated by nearby signs.
City councils enforce these rules through cameras and traffic wardens.
Responses to freedom of information requests sent by the AA to all UK councils found that 1.6 million penalty change notices (PCNs) were issued in 2024 for illegal parking on single or double yellow lines.
More than half a million of those PCNs came from 10 councils, five of which were London boroughs.
There is no universal rate for double yellow line violations. PCNs issued in London can cost up to £160. Outside the capital they usually cost around £70, but can go up to £130.
Amounts are usually halved if paid within 14 days.
A survey of almost 15,000 AA members indicated that the most common reasons given for parking on double yellow lines include loading or unloading goods (43 per cent), making a quick stop (31 per cent), a vehicle occupant having a blue badge (27 per cent) and a lack of available parking spaces elsewhere (18 per cent).
When asked what would deter them from parking illegally, 52 percent of respondents said more parking options would be the most effective deterrent (52 percent).
About 38 percent of drivers 65 and older admitted to parking on the double yellow line, compared to just 29 percent of those ages 18 to 24.
AA parking expert Jack Cousens issued a “call to action” for councils and transport planners.
He said: “People need to know where they can park safely and legally.
“Expanding legal provisions on parking and improving the visibility of restrictions could significantly reduce violations and improve road safety.
“The data shows that drivers are willing to follow the rules, but they need the tools to do so.
“The way forward is a combination of investment in infrastructure, education and smart law enforcement.”
A spokesperson for the Local Government Association said the increase in the number and size of vehicles over recent decades means it is “increasingly difficult for councils to manage parking demand and ensure people park safely and within the rules”.
He added: “Parking fine levels in England outside London are set by the Government, however they have not been reviewed since 2008.
“A review of these tiers could help ensure councils have updated powers to tackle illegal parking, ensure fair treatment of those who follow the rules and support better parking provision and enforcement where necessary.”
A Department for Transport spokesperson said: “Parking policing plays an important role in keeping roads safe and traffic flowing.
“Penalties should be fair and used to encourage drivers to park correctly, not to surprise them.
“We are carefully considering new evidence from the parking sector on current fine levels and will respond in due course.”
