If you’ve asked the question, “Can I park on a private road?”, the answer is that generally, only the road owner has the right to park there.
Unauthorised parking on private or unadopted roads can be deemed as trespassing or nuisance parking. In the UK, this means the road owner could pursue compensation through legal action.
Parking that obstructs road access is considered a civil wrong, and if someone drives on a private road without permission in a restricted area, this may also constitute an offence. Importantly, due to UK parking laws, clamping and towing unauthorised vehicles are illegal in private settings.
Parking rules differ between private and public land, and understanding these differences is important. This post explains how parking on private roads works and what drivers and property owners should know.
How private parking rules work
When you park on private land, any visible signs about parking rules act like a contract. By parking on a private road, you’re agreeing to follow those rules, even if you don’t directly say so. If you break these rules, the property owner can issue a fine or parking charge notice. This type of fine is a civil matter, meaning it’s not a criminal offence, but you could still face a claim for the unpaid charge
Understanding obstruction and trespassing on private roads
Parking without permission or blocking access on a private road can be considered trespassing or obstruction. While property owners can take legal action to resolve this, UK law prevents them from using clamping or towing as enforcement measures. Instead, they may rely on civil claims or other allowable methods to address repeated issues.
How property owners may deal with unauthorised parking
If you park without permission on a private road or property, owners have certain rights to address this. They can put up signage to indicate restrictions, use barriers to prevent access, or pursue a civil claim if issues persist. Although UK law restricts clamping and towing, repeated unauthorised parking may still lead to legal action, impacting your right to park in the future.
Your rights and how to appeal a parking claim
If you receive a parking charge on a private road or property, you can challenge it. Start by submitting an informal appeal to the issuing entity, such as the property owner or the private parking enforcement company managing the site. Provide evidence, like photos or witness statements, to support your case.
If unresolved, escalate to an independent appeals body such as POPLA or the IAS. In more complex cases, seeking legal advice may also offer valuable support and guidance.
How Creative Car Park can help
If you’re facing a parking claim on private land, Creative Car Park is here to support you through every step. Our experienced team offers tailored guidance, assessing your specific situation to help determine if the claim is valid and advising on potential appeal options. We aim to make this process simple and manageable, ensuring you understand your rights and feel empowered to respond effectively.
Our advisers take time to review the details of your case, providing personalised recommendations on how to approach the claim or appeal. Whether you need assistance gathering evidence or want to explore if the charge is justifiable, we are here to offer the expertise you need.
For personalised support, speak with an adviser at 0333 242 5529 or contact us online. You can also refer to our guide on nuisance parking for more information on managing private parking disputes.
