In 2024, more than 1.6 million Penalty Charge Notices were issued for contravention code 01 — covering both single and double yellow lines — according to a Freedom of Information request by The AA. Despite this, new AA research shows that 37% of drivers have parked on double yellow lines at least once, while 63% say they never have; 27% admit to doing so occasionally, and 1 in 10 say they do so more often.
Ten councils have issued over 581,000 of the 1.6 million PCNs, generating more than £40 million at the standard £70 charge. A survey of nearly 15,000 drivers shows the main reasons people break the rules. Loading or unloading goods (43%) was the most common, followed by making a quick stop (31%). Some drivers parked illegally while accompanying someone with a Blue Badge (27%). 18% cited a lack of legal parking, while 13% said they stopped for an emergency. Only 13% of those who parked on double yellow lines said they received a fine, suggesting that although enforcement is high, it does not catch every offence.
Double yellow lines mean parking or waiting is not allowed at any time, though some exemptions exist. Blue Badge holders may park for up to three hours if safe and non-obstructive, and loading or unloading may be allowed where there are no kerb markings, and breakdowns should be treated sympathetically until help arrives.
When asked what would deter illegal parking, drivers highlighted the need for better infrastructure, with over half (52%) saying more legal parking options would stop them from breaking the rules. Others pointed to visible enforcement (41%), higher fines (25%), clearer signage (18%) and public awareness campaigns (16%).
Demographic differences were clear. Drivers aged 18–34 were less likely to admit parking on double yellow lines (29%) than those aged 65+ (38%). Men (40%) were more likely than women (28%) to say they had done so. Scotland and Wales recorded the highest proportions of occasional breaches, while London and the South East showed the strongest demand for more legal parking.
In response to driver feedback, the AA is urging councils to expand legal parking, improve signage, review existing restrictions and target enforcement where most effective