Parking restrictions near schools

Parking restrictions near schools

What are the yellow zigzag lines on the road outside schools for?

The yellow ‘zig-zag’ keep clear road markings outside many schools in Hammersmith and Fulham are provided for a very good reason: the safety of pupils.  Any cars parked in the restricted area can hide small children who are about to cross the road.  The children may not see approaching cars, and approaching motorists may not see the children. 

Enforcement and penalties

Time plates are provided on poles near the zigzag markings on the road.  The timings may vary from the example shown here. The Highway Code states: “You MUST NOT wait or park, or stop to set down and pick up passengers, on school entrance markings"  (Highway Code rule 238, Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984)

Despite the best efforts of the borough’s schools, parent-teacher associations and the council’s road safety team, a small number of parents/carers continue to park illegally and dangerously on the School Keep Clear markings. Enforcement by Civil Enforcement Officers, Police and Council Road Safety Officers is periodically stepped up to target a minority of parents who disregard the regulation.

Drivers who stop or park on the School Keep Clear markings are liable for the following fine and charges:

Fine: £130 (£65 if paid within 14 days from the date of issue)

The cost to release your car from the car pound is £200 (in addition to the penalty charge);

The cost of storage of your vehicle in the car pound is £40 per day (or part day); and

The cost of disposing of your vehicle is £70.

WE ALL WANT TO KEEP YOUR CHILDREN SAFE
YOU CAN HELP - KEEP THE ZIG ZAGS CLEAR

Must you drive your children to school?

Most children attending schools in Hammersmith & Fulham live close enough to walk or cycle to school.  Please consider this option; it's very often faster than driving in the rush-hour then looking for a safe and legal place to park.  If you do drive you must park safely and considerately near neighbouring properties, whether homes or businesses, and do not block entrances, driveways, or park at or near to junctions.  Morning arrival and afternoon departure of pupils inevitably results in temporary congestion near schools so allow plenty of time for your journey. 

If you can walk, hold your child’s hand, especially when crossing roads and introduce them to correct road safety skills for life. You can play your part in reinforcing the road safety education which your child receives at school.