New parking laws threaten £100 fine for drivers in this city

Having a car is great, but it does come with certain maintenance responsibilities and - as all drivers know - annoying costs. We recently warned drivers who are turning 70 in 2024 that they will need to renew their licence every three years to stay on the roads. If they don’t, they could face a fine. Similarly, in the recent cold weather, we warned drivers that they could be fined as much as £2,500 for failing to meet requirements that kick in with the lower temperatures.

Now, drivers in Edinburgh will have to watch where and how they park - or they risk a fine of £100. Here’s everything you need to know about the fine and how to avoid it.

The £100 fine

From yesterday, 29 January, drivers in Scotland’s capital city could be charged for committing a number of parking infractions. The goal, according to the councils, is to make roads and pavements safer.

So, what do you need to watch out for? Well, drivers could be fined for parking up on pavements - something we all know we shouldn’t do but on occasion allow ourselves. You could also pay the price for parking at crossing points, on verges which lie between roads and pavements, or in a way that obstructs other drivers or pedestrians. These are things to keep in mind when you are rushing to find a spot during the busy hours of the day!

Increased safety

These rules were formally introduced across Scotland on 11 December 2023, but Edinburgh City Council allowed a grace period for people to get used to them. Now, there will be ‘no exemptions’ for those breaking the regulations.

Councillor Scott Arthur previously called on drivers to familiarise themselves with the new rules to avoid getting an unwanted fine. He explained:

These new rules are about making our streets safer and more accessible for everyone, in particular those with visual impairments or mobility issues.

The only vehicles exempt include emergency services, of course, and vehicles used for road works or the removal of obstructions.

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Sources used:

GB News: New parking law changes launching today could see drivers slapped with huge £100 fine

RAC: Edinburgh introduces pavement parking ban with a £100 fine for drivers