Accessible parking
Where you can park with a Blue Badge, disabled bays in car parks, dropped kerbs, and what to do about misuse or a penalty notice.
Applies to: UK-wide. Last reviewed 1 August 2026. This is information, not legal advice; rules can differ by council and operator.
On-street parking with a Blue Badge
- In most of England, Scotland and Wales you can park free and without time limit at on-street parking meters and pay-and-display bays.
- You can usually park on single or double yellow lines for up to 3 hours where there is no loading ban, unless local signs say otherwise.
- Different rules apply in central London boroughs, so check before travelling.
- You cannot park where there are loading restrictions, on zig-zag lines, in bus or cycle lanes during operating hours, or where it would block traffic or a dropped kerb.
Off-street car parks
Supermarket, hospital and shopping centre car parks are private land. Blue Badge rights do not automatically apply and the operator sets the rules, including how long you may stay in a disabled bay. Read the signs at the entrance, and keep evidence if you are wrongly issued a parking charge.
If a bay is blocked or misused
- On-street bays are enforced by the council's civil enforcement officers.
- Off-street private bays are enforced by the landowner or their parking operator.
- Report repeated misuse to the council or landowner in writing and ask what they will do about it.
Getting a bay near your home
Councils can install an advisory or enforceable disabled parking bay outside your home. Criteria vary but usually include holding a Blue Badge, having no off-street parking, and being able to show you need to park close to your door. Apply through your council; waiting times can be long.
Official sources and where to apply
Find providers
Search the accessible transport directory for accessible parking and other services in your area.
Other transport guides
Rail Passenger Assist
Free assistance at stations and on trains across Great Britain and Northern Ireland, including help boarding, ramps, and someone to meet you.
Accessible buses and coaches
Your rights on local buses and long-distance coaches, wheelchair spaces, priority seating, audio-visual announcements and free travel passes.
Airport and airline assistance
Free special assistance at UK airports, how to book it, and how wheelchairs and mobility equipment are handled.
Ferries and water transport
Assistance on ferries to the islands, Northern Ireland and Europe, including notice periods and what to check about the vessel and terminal.