Blue Badges: Different councils, different rules

Seacroft Mobility’s Daniel Swain offers badge holders some parking advice

As councils across the country step up their enforcement efforts, drivers with a Blue Badge are being warned to be aware of the “hidden” parking rules that could land them with a hefty fine. Many people who have had their badge for years are still getting caught out by rules they don’t know about.

The most recent data from the Department of Transport shows there are now 2.84 million Blue Badges held in England, so it’s more important than ever to make sure holders are using theirs correctly.

This is a really common problem. Most people think their Blue Badge is a licence to park anywhere for free, but that’s just not the case. Different councils, and even different car parks, have their own rules. A simple mistake could cost you hundreds in fines or, in the worst cases, result in your badge being taken away.

Some of the most common mistakes people make:

• Don't assume free parking: A Blue Badge doesn't always guarantee free parking in a private car park, like at a supermarket or hospital. You must always read the signs there, as you might still have to pay or register your car.
• The parking clock is crucial: Even when you can park on a yellow line, there’s usually a time limit of three hours. If you don’t display your parking clock showing your arrival time, you can be fined. 
• A badge is for the holder only: You can only display your Blue Badge if the person it was issue to is in the car, either as a driver or a passenger. It’s a criminal offence to lend it to a family member or friend to do an errand for you. Don’t do it, as it could result in a fine of up to £1,000. 

Some helpful tips:

• Always display your badge on the dashboard so they can be easily seen.
• Before you travel to a new place, check the local council’s website for specific rules. 
• If your badge is faded or damaged, get a new one from your local council to avoid any issues.

Daniel Swain is a mobility expert at Seacroft Mobility