Parent and child parking rules explained: how to avoid fines

Drivers need to be fully aware of who can use parent and child spaces in car parks – and its not as obvious as you might think. Even families might be in the wrong for using these from time to time.

There is no specific official count for the total number of parent-child parking spaces in the UK. However, these designated bays are commonplace in many public places, such as supermarkets, shopping centres, hospitals and more.

Like other specialist spots, these are limited, so it can be incredibly frustrating to find none available – or worse – someone abusing the system. The dedicated spaces will usually be marked clearly with an image of an adult and child on the floor or a nearby signpost.

According to the RAC, these wider-than-normal parking bays are designed with parents in mind. They’re set up this way to “give parents enough space to manoeuvre their young children in and out of their cars.”

The additional room is especially handy when handling bulky child carriers and pushchairs. These spots are also conveniently close to the front of the car park, preventing the need for children to walk across busy areas – but this perk is what often leads to them being abused.

The rules around parent and child parking are often confusing. Sometimes, the signs do not make it 100% clear that the spaces are supposed to be used for specific circumstances and its not a simple blanket term.

The RAC states on its website: “Parent and child bays are reserved for parents or guardians with one or more children under 12 years old.” It adds that, whilst parking in a parent and child bay isn’t illegal if you don’t have a child under 12 with you, you could be hit with a Parking Charge Notice (PCN).

The National Parking Enforcement Agency adds an important stipulation to this rule, though, stating that the child in question must also be getting out of the car with the adult. Put simply, you should not use the bays if you are waiting in the car with children while someone else gets out and goes into the shop, for example.

It states: “If a child (or children) does not exit the vehicle there is no need to use these bays. Drivers wishing to leave young children unattended should use a regular parking bay. This allows drivers who wish to use the bay correctly the choice to do so.”

What is the punishment?

A fine for misusing a parent and child parking bay can be a Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) (PCN) of up to £100. However, this can vary depending on the specific car park operator.

Who enforces these rules?

Supermarket car parks are private property. Any rules about their use will be enforced by the supermarket themselves or by a private firm allocated to manage them.

Many of these firms are members of the British Parking Association (BPA) and must adhere to the organisation’s operator scheme code of practice.  If the operator of a supermarket car park isn’t a BPA member, they could be registered with an alternative Accredited Trade Association (ATA).

Are pregnant drivers allowed to use them?

While there’s no universal law specifically allowing pregnant people to use parent and child parking spaces, it’s generally considered acceptable – especially during the end stages of pregnancy or when experiencing discomfort. However, to avoid any issues, it would be a good idea to check with the car park owner.

The general acceptance may vary from store to store to speaking with one of the managers will clear up exactly what the rules are. Making people aware about your situation could help avoid any fines or action from being taken against you for using the bay.