From Monday, 18 August 2025, drivers in Falkirk will need to rethink where they park, as four new parking restrictions come into full force.
The changes, introduced under Scottish Government legislation from 2019 and 2023, aim to improve road safety and pedestrian accessibility. Motorists caught breaking these rules face a £100 fine, reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days.
These rules follow a year-long awareness campaign, during which Falkirk Council issued 1,800 advisory notices to give residents time to adjust. Now, the grace period is over, and full enforcement begins.
The Four Parking Bans Explained
1. Pavement Parking Ban
It is now illegal to park with any wheels on a pavement. This rule is designed to keep walkways clear for pedestrians, including wheelchair users, parents with prams, and people with visual impairments. Even partial obstruction will result in a fine.
2. No Parking on Low Verges
Motorists can no longer park on grassy or unpaved roadside verges, which often suffer damage from repeated vehicle use and can create hazards for pedestrians.
3. Blocking Dropped Kerbs Prohibited
Parking that obstructs dropped kerbs—essential for wheelchair and pram access—is banned. These crossings are critical for safe, independent movement across streets.
4. Double Parking Restrictions
Double parking or stopping more than 50 cm from the kerb is now prohibited. This ensures better traffic flow and prevents dangerous obstructions for other vehicles.
Why the Rules Were Introduced
Council Leader Cecil Meiklejohn highlighted that pavements are vital for pedestrian safety, especially for those with mobility challenges or visual impairments. Vehicles blocking pavements can force pedestrians into live traffic, greatly increasing accident risks.
Local resident Allan McBride, who is severely sight impaired, explained that pavement parking disrupts his carefully planned walking routes, sometimes forcing him into unsafe road situations.
The legislation is about protecting vulnerable road users and creating a safer, more accessible community for all.
Awareness Phase and Enforcement Timeline
The new parking rules were not enforced immediately. Instead, from 7 May 2024, Falkirk Council issued advisory notices to raise awareness.
Over the past year, the council assessed 2,360 roads across the area. Twenty-one streets are currently being considered for exemptions, and enforcement will be delayed in these locations until decisions are finalised.
From 18 August 2025, however, full enforcement begins, with £100 penalties (reduced to £50 if paid within 14 days).
Details of the New Rules and Enforcement
| Restriction | Description | Fine | Enforcement Start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pavement Parking | Illegal to park with one or more wheels on the pavement. | £100 (£50 if early) | 18 August 2025 |
| Low Verge Parking | No parking on grassy or unpaved roadside verges. | £100 (£50 if early) | 18 August 2025 |
| Blocking Dropped Kerbs | Parking that obstructs pedestrian, wheelchair, or pram access crossings banned. | £100 (£50 if early) | 18 August 2025 |
| Double Parking | No parking alongside another vehicle or over 50 cm from the kerb. | £100 (£50 if early) | 18 August 2025 |
| Exemptions in Review | 21 streets under consideration for exemptions. | N/A | Pending |
Exceptions to the Rules
While the restrictions are strict, there are limited exemptions:
- Emergency services responding to incidents.
- Delivery vehicles, permitted for up to 20 minutes, provided 1.5m of pavement clearance is maintained.
- Essential utility or maintenance work vehicles.
However, Blue Badge holders are not automatically exempt, and enforcement officers will still issue fines if any obstruction is caused.
Impact on Residents and Visitors
This change is expected to improve pedestrian safety significantly, particularly for vulnerable individuals. However, it also means drivers will need to plan their parking more carefully to avoid fines.
For visitors unfamiliar with the new rules, clear communication and signage will be important to avoid accidental breaches.
Falkirk’s new parking enforcement marks a major shift toward prioritising pedestrian safety and accessibility. With fines of up to £100, the message is clear—drivers must park responsibly or face penalties.
By keeping pavements, verges, dropped kerbs, and roads clear, the community can ensure safer, more inclusive public spaces for everyone.
FAQs
Will there be signs showing where parking is banned?
No, the rules apply across Falkirk by default. Only streets with official exemptions will be signposted.
Can Blue Badge holders park on pavements under these rules?
No, the ban applies to all drivers, including those with a Blue Badge.
What if I’m unloading heavy goods to my home?
You may stop briefly for loading or unloading, but you must leave at least 1.5 metres of pavement clear and limit the stop to 20 minutes.